Queenstown cycle trail opens to rave reviews

Thursday, 18 October 2012

Media Release

Queenstown cycle trail opens to rave reviews

The Queenstown Trail, which has been in construction for the last two years, was officially opened today at community event attended by Prime Minister John Key and New Zealand Cycle Trail Ambassador Sarah Ulmer.

New Zealand Cycle Trail Programme Manager John Dunn said the Queenstown Trails Trust has done an amazing job creating a world class trail to join Nga Haerenga, the New Zealand Cycle Trail.

“Queenstown’s focus on growing economic benefits for the area has ensured the integration of local business opportunities in the creation of the Trails. Accommodation and local food and wine experiences are in easy reach, as is spectacular scenery. This Trail has everything a cyclist needs – momentum, majesty and magic.”

Queenstown Trails Trust CEO Kaye Parker said achieving the world class quality required of the New Zealand Cycle Trail had been hard work but was entirely worth it.

“Our achievement is also due to amazing community involvement. More than 20 landowners have generously given private and public easements and the community and other friends of the Trail have also given of their time and money.

“Together we have created a great asset for the region. The Trail offers new income streams for the area and promotes new activities for visitors outside of the peak summer and winter seasons. Locals can also now use the Trail recreationally and to commute to and from work off the busy main roads.”

New Zealand Cycle Trail Ambassador Sarah Ulmer cycled part of the Trail for the opening and described it as “awesome”.

“All of the Nga Haerenga, New Zealand Cycle Trail Great Rides are just so different. I just love that this trail has such a diverse range of riding with equally diverse scenery. One minute you're rolling through farmland, the next you're looking up to huge mountain peaks, and before you know it you're overlooking a river - and every corner takes your breath away. I also love that I can enjoy a cruisey ride with the kids or can rip into the tougher sections for a challenging workout. This is an absolutely brilliant asset for Queenstown and the region.”

The Queenstown Trail is a joint initiative of the Queenstown Trails Trust, the Queenstown Lakes District Council and the New Zealand Cycle Trail project. The government contributed $2.0 million for the construction and The Queenstown Trails Trust fundraised a further $3.4 million to complete the Trail.

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