$1.2 million boost for New Zealand's Great Rides

“The funding will support upgrades to the West Coast Wilderness Trail, Waikato River Trail and Nelson’s Coppermine Trail, so these cycle trails remain safe and accessible for both visitors and local communities,” Manager of Investment Management Performance David Talbot says.

New Zealand’s Great Rides are a key part of our tourism offering, attracting visitors to regions across the country and supporting local businesses and jobs.

“This investment will address known safety and infrastructure issues, improve trail quality, and help ensure our cycle trail network continues to deliver world-class experiences for visitors,” Talbot says.

The funding comes from the Ngā Haerenga, New Zealand Cycle Trail Fund and includes:

• West Coast Wilderness Trail: Mahinapua Boardwalks Upgrade - $975,000
• Waikato River Trail: Waipapa Regrade - $135,000
• Coppermine Trail: Maitai Connection - $103,011

In total, the Government is investing $1.213 million, with local partners contributing more than $718,000 towards the projects.

The Mahinapua Boardwalks Upgrade on the West Coast Wilderness Trail will improve the resilience and safety of a key section of the trail, while the Waikato River Trail project will regrade the Waipapa section to improve usability and reduce maintenance requirements. Funding for the Coppermine Trail will support the Maitai Connection, improving access and connectivity for trail users.

These 3 projects are being funding from the Ngā Haerenga, the New Zealand Cycle Trail Fund (NZCT Fund) investment round that commenced in 2025. 10 other Great Ride infrastructure projects have received $3.8 million of funding from the investment round.

“New Zealand’s cycle trails give visitors a distinctive way to experience our landscapes and regions. This funding will help ensure the trails continue to provide safe, high-quality experiences,” Talbot says.