The more than 51 miles (82 km) long light railway line was operated from 1905[2] to 1947[3] by the Taupo Totara Timber Company.

The permanent way (rails and sleepers) had been removed in 1897 after the failure of the NZTVLC's Lichfield town development (known as the "Selwyn Estate"),[8] leaving only the earthworks.

From January 29, 1908, the TTT Railway opened its freight and passenger[17] services to the public under the terms of a NZ Government Order in Council.

[18] The line provided a direct connection between Putāruru and the settlements of Lichfield, Tokoroa, Ongaroto, and Mokai.

[19] Passengers and freight for destinations such as Wairakei, Taupō, Tokaanu, and northern Hawkes Bay, would be set down or picked up at a siding approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) from Mokai.

A typical TTT train consisted of one locomotive (or occasionally two), multiple flat cars, and a van with passenger accommodation.

The TTT Railway crossed the Waikato River at Ongaroto, approximately 5.6 km southwest of the present-day(2024) State Highway 1 bridge near Ātiamuri .

In the late 1920s the timber arch bridge deteriorated and consulting engineer Stanley Jones recommended replacement.

In 1911 the TTT put forward a proposal to extend their line from Mokai to Taupō via Oruanui and Wairakei.

[35][33] The NZ Government in 1913 issued an Order in Council authorising the extension, and in 1914 passed legislation describing the process to be followed.

[41][42] The TTT continued providing rail service on the 19 miles (31 km) northern section, from Putāruru to the "19-Mile Peg" (south of Tokoroa).

[47] Starting on Tuesday, 10 June 1947, the Public Works Department took over the operation of the northern section,[48][3] using steam locomotives purchased from the TTT.

[49] The northern section was reconstructed under a NZ Government scheme for development of the Waikato River basin and surrounding areas.