Thursday 28 October 2010

Media Release

Far North Trail receives $3.9 million from New Zealand Cycle Trail project

Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail (NZCT) project will sign a $3.9 million contract for the new Bay of Islands to Hokianga Cycle Trail at a formal event in Moerewa tomorrow.

The trail is a joint initiative of the Far North District Council, Ministry for Social Development and The New Zealand Cycle Trail project.

New Zealand Cycle Trail Project Manager Richard Balm says the Government is investing in the trail to help develop a sustainable tourism product that will generate lasting economic benefits for the local communities involved.

“Work on the construction of the trail began in June and has so far included the clearance of some substantial sections of trail between Okaihau to Kaikohe and from Otiria to Kawakawa,” Mr Balm says.

“The Ministry of Social Development provided funding through a Community Max employment scheme of $650,000 in June which has enabled 61 workers to be employed on the construction of the trail so far. A further $100,000 of funding from the NZCT Fund was also advanced in June to assist with costs associated with the scheme.

“The signing of the Funding Agreement between the NZCT Project and the Far North District Council for $3.9 million will bring the total NZCT project funding to $4 million and total central Government funding, including Ministry of Social Development funding to $4.65 million.

“This grade 1-2 trail will appeal to a wide range of visitors and cater for all levels of riding ability including beginners and families, Mr Balm says.

“The trail is steeped in historical significance of early New Zealand history dating from before the New Zealand land wars, and in parts follows ancient Maori trails from East to West. The route crosses rural farm country, and passes through a number of small towns as well as many sites of historical and cultural significance.

“A unique feature of this trail will be a series of Pou, carved by iwi, which will be erected along the trail route to recall the history and stories of both iwi and Pakeha settlements in and around the area,” Mr Balm says.

Far North District Council Mayor Wayne Brown says the Council is pleased to back the project, which will bring tangible benefits to the townships along its route.

“We’ve grasped this opportunity because of its tourism and job creation potential in our district and we are grateful to the Government for supporting our vision with a substantial financial contribution,” he said.

“Our trail will tell the story of an emerging nation, capturing the heritage of our pioneers and our Maori and telling their stories along the way. I see so much potential for business growth in areas such as accommodation, food and beverage, cycle-related services, transportation and tourism activity including guided tours and events and cultural and historical experiences.”

The 84km Bay of Islands to Hokianga Cycle Trail is planned to run from Opua to Mangungu near Horeke on the Hokianga harbour. The trail construction has been divided into four stages. The first section to be completed will be 14km of an old rail corridor between Kaikohe and Okaihau. The aim is for the trail to then run for 34km from Kaikohe to Kawakawa, 25km from Okaihau to Horeke and a further 11km from Kawakawa to Opua.

“The Bay of Islands to Hokianga Cycle Trail will be one of a series of 18 Great Rides that will showcase the best that New Zealand has to offer in terms of New Zealand’s landscape, culture and communities,” Mr Balm says.

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