Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail project will sign its contract for the new Queenstown Trail at a formal event in Queenstown today.

The Queenstown Trail is a joint initiative of the Wakatipu Trails Trust, the Queenstown Lakes District Council, and the New Zealand Cycle Trail project.
 
New Zealand Cycle Trail Programme Manager John Dunn says the Wakatipu Trails Trust had done an excellent job on the planning for the Queenstown Trail making today’s contract signing possible.

“I see the Queenstown Trail as a platform for economic development,” Mr Dunn says. “The cycle trails are important in their own right, but at the end of the day the Government is making a $1.83 million investment in the Queenstown region.”

“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.”

“Tourists will be attracted to the Queenstown Trail because of the iconic mountain scenery and the existing tourism attractions such as the wineries and the Kawarau  Bungy venture. Equally as important will be the ability of locals to use the trails recreationally and to commute to and from work,” he added.

Queenstown Lakes District Council Chief Executive Debra Lawson has hailed the Queenstown Trail as a catalyst, which will bring lasting economic benefits for the region.

Wakatipu Trails Trust CEO Kaye Parker says the community is right behind this exciting project. “This is evidenced by the recent $90,000 Wakatipu Trail Blazer event. We are confident that we will get the ongoing financial support to meet our co-funding obligations.”

The Queenstown Trail includes 87km of new and existing cycle trails. Surrounded by Queenstown’s mountain ranges the trail follows lakes, rivers, country lanes and takes in the internationally renowned wine making district of Gibbston. Cyclists will be able to choose from a variety of trails and there are many options to stay in Queenstown, Arrowtown, and Gibbston or in accommodation along the trail.

For more information on Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail Project, please go to: www.tourism.govt.nz/cycleway

 

Further statement from QLDC Chief Executive Debra Lawson

 

"As an enthusiastic cyclist, I can't think of a better way to experience the stunning Queenstown environment and generous hospitality of our district than by following one of our local cycle trails.  As someone who works and lives in the district I am also looking forward to the opportunity of cycling to the office as an alternative way to start the day."

"No doubt the Queenstown Trail will bring economic benefit to Queenstown Lakes, enhance the experience of visitors and provide our local community with accessible recreational cycle and alternatives to driving."

All of this is only possible by making the national and local ambitions for the New Zealand Cycle Project - happen on the ground - and so in signing this contract today we celebrate the commitment of the Wakatipu Trails Trust, QLDC and the Government who have generously funded this project.  $1.83 million is a big vote of confidence in the Queenstown Lakes District."

"I also want to acknowledge the support of the trustees of the Trails Trust, local landowners and our community who together are backing this project all the way."

 

Media inquiries:

 

Sarah Berry  New Zealand Cycle Trail project   
Phone: 04 474 2912   
Mobile: 027 246 5650  

Kaye Parker 
CEO
Wakatipu Trails Trust
Mobile: 027 626 7448

Rebecca Pitts 
Communications Officer 
Queenstown Lakes District Council  
Phone: 03 450 0448 

By: Rebecca