Nelson and Tasman Trails receive $2.63 million from New Zealand Cycle Trail project
Last updated:
August 2010
Media Release
Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail project will sign its contract for the new Dun Mountain and Tasman Loop cycle trails at a formal event at the Tasman District Council in Richmond today.
The trails are a joint initiative of the Nelson City Council, the Tasman District Council, the Nelson Cycle Trails Trust and The New Zealand Cycle Trail project.
New Zealand Cycle Trail Programme Manager John Dunn says the Nelson Cycle Trails Trust had done an excellent job on the planning for the trails making today’s contract signing possible.
“This contract will help accomplish the goals of the New Zealand Cycle Trail project which are to generate lasting economic, social and environmental benefits for New Zealand communities through a network of world class cycling experiences,” Mr Dunn says.
The creation of the Dun Mountain and Tasman Loop trails will also enhance New Zealand’s reputation as a premium tourist destination. With iconic attractions like the Abel Tasman National Park, good weather and strengths in the arts, food and wine, the Nelson-Tasman region already appeals to a wide range of active and independent travelers who are a key target market for cycle tourism.
“The varied and interesting coastal terrain of the Tasman Loop trail will appeal to a wide cross section of cyclists and day trippers, while the Dun Mountain trail is an excellent one day ride for more experienced cyclists and mountain bikers,” Mr Dunn added.
Tasman District Council Mayor Richard Kempthorne welcomed the signing as another step closer to the cycle trail becoming a reality.
“We have all along seen the benefits a cycle trail of this scale. Not only will this trail provide visitors with an alternative view of our beautiful region it will be another attraction to further cement the area as one of the country’s tourism jewels building upon the attractions and natural features that already exist.”
Nelson City Council Mayor Kerry Marshall says the Cycle Trail project will deliver huge benefits to our regional community and visitors alike.
“It allows Nelson to leverage off existing work and gain recognition on a national level. Where else can you leave downtown on your bike and be on an unspoiled alpine trail within an hour? We have the best weather for cycling, magnificent country to explore and a community that gets what cycling’s all about. Nelson City Council is a very proud partner in this development for the future.”
The Tasman Loop trail is a 175km loop. The first 56km takes cyclists on a disused railway line from Richmond to Tapawera along a route which includes New Zealand’s longest decommissioned rail tunnel. The remaining 119km is on quiet country road through the Motueka Valley and then along the coast from Riwaka back to Richmond. It also provides links to the noted Kaiteriteri Beach on the edge of Abel Tasman National Park.
The 37km Dun Mountain Trail, close to Nelson, follows the route of New Zealand’s first railway as it winds through forest before crossing an alpine mineral belt and descending to the Maitai River.
For more information on Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail Project, please go to: www.tourism.govt.nz/cycleway
SIGNING AND PHOTO OPPORTUNITY DETAILS
The funding agreement will be signed by New Zealand Cycle Trail Programme
Manager John Dunn, Tasman District Council Mayor Richard Kempthorne and Nelson City Council Mayor Kerry Marshall at the Tasman District Council Chambers, Queen Street, Richmond on Friday 20 August at 11am.
Media inquiries:
Sarah Berry
New Zealand Cycle Trail project
Phone: 04 474 2912
Mobile: 027 246 5650 |
Chris Choat
Communications Adviser
Tasman District Council
Phone: 03 5437220 |
Penny Bloomberg
Manager Public Communications
Nelson City Council
03 546 0223
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