Media release

26 February 2013

Construction To Commence On The Around The Mountains Cycle Trail

A new funding agreement has been signed between Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail, and the Southland District Council—clearing the way for construction of the trail to begin.

NZ Cycle Trail project manager John Dunn says the new funding contract will enable the Southland District Council to start construction on the 175km trail.

Mr Dunn says the new contract is worth $4 million, with co-funding to be underwritten by the council.

“Trails in pristine and iconic areas, such as the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail, are the most challenging to get off the ground. The Southland District Council is to be commended for their tenacity and passion that got them to this point,” Mr Dunn says.

Southland District Council Mayor Frana Cardno says Council is now working hard on getting the best price it can for the tenders and hopes to be under way as soon as possible.

“We are really excited and thank the community for all their support, and also for hanging in there with us. We are looking forward to completing this trail and seeing the positive impact on these communities,” Mrs Cardno says.

The trail will be completed in two stages—the first by 31 October 2013 and the second by December 2015.

Read more about the trail online at: http://www.nzcycletrail.com/around-mountains

A joint initiative between the Green Party and the Government, the New Zealand Cycle Trail is currently managed by the Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE).

The long term vision for the New Zealand Cycle Trail is of creating a nationwide cycling network that attracts more international visitors and gets more New Zealanders cycling.

ENDS

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