Queenstown Trail receives $1.83 million from New Zealand Cycle Trail project

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

ENDS

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