New Zealand Cycle Trail Background
Last updated:
November 2009
Background to the Cycleway Project
On 27 February 2009 the government held the Jobs Summit. The aim of the Summit was to generate ideas to help retain jobs during the global economic crisis.
One of these ideas was the establishment of a cycleway running the length of the country. The objective would be to create jobs whilst creating a long-term national asset, both for New Zealanders and to enhance our reputation as a premium tourist destination.
Following the Job Summit, Cabinet gave responsibility for progressing this work to the Minister of Tourism. The Ministry of Tourism was given the job of lead agency for the Cycleway Project.
Differing options were assessed and it was soon realised that a network of cycleways (‘Great Rides’) was a stronger option. The ‘Great Rides’ will be based around New Zealand’s iconic attractions and make use of infrastructure that is already there. Also, the ‘Great Rides’ will tap into existing regional and local government community based initiatives that are already underway.
On 20 April 2009, Cabinet agreed to the recommendations for the
Development of the New Zealand Cycleway Project.
See also:
How will the cycleway create jobs?
In the short-term, the cycleway will help create jobs through its design, construction, and management.
In the long-term it will create a high-quality tourism asset that will help attract higher-value cycle tourists and will complement our 100% Pure brand.
It will create jobs through the establishment of regional businesses along new routes, for example, accommodation, cafes etc. This has already been demonstrated by New Zealand’s very own Otago Central Rail trail and other successful cycleway initiatives around the world such as the Route Verte in Quebec and the National Cycle Network in the North East of England.
Funding approved - $50 million over three years
On 14 May 2009, the Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, John Key, announced that the Budget would allocate $50 million over three years for the New Zealand Cycleway Project.
This will be made up of $2.5 million for management of the project and $47.5 million for the establishment of the National Cycleway. The Ministry of Tourism will be looking at different models for the best way for this funding to be allocated, including co-funding options with regions and local governments.
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