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.

[4] This stretch of track underwent a major reconstruction, and is now(2024) part of KiwiRail's Kinleith Branch Line.

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.

[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.