Northland cycle trail receives funding boost

The investment will support improvements to trail connectivity, visitor facilities, accessibility, and cultural visitor experiences along the Great Ride.

The funding will help construct the first stage of a new cycle trail between Opua and the Whangae Tunnel, alongside a longer-term project to improve connections between Opua and Taumarere where the Bay of Islands Vintage Railway Trust has reinstated the railway. Cyclists will continue to have access to the Bay of Islands Vintage Railway service on sections of the route while future stages of the project are considered.

The project has been developed in partnership with iwi and incorporates opportunities to share the history, culture and stories of Te Tai Tokerau through interpretation and visitor experiences.

Construction is expected to begin this financial year once the final trail design and implementation plan have been finalised.