Retro look helps put trail on track

Chuck on your finest florals, or plus fours and tweed blazer, to celebrate the opening of the final section of the Greytown to Woodside trail on February 3.

The Greytown Trails Trust has organised Wairarapa's first "Tweed Run" to celebrate the completion of Stage 2 of the trail.

Tweed Runs originated in London and are an opportunity for cyclists to dress up in vintage clothes for a light-hearted cycle ride.

The Greytown trail follows the 5km route of the Greytown-Woodside branch line, which opened in 1880 and ran until 1953.

Stage one of the trail was officially opened on November 6, 2011.

A large team of volunteers, with support from local businesses and individuals, have over the past three years developed the trail into a fenced route through farmland, which gradually rises to Woodside.

It passes heritage trees and has picnic spots and views of the Tararuas along the way. The metal surface is suitable for walking and bikes.

The opening ceremony will be held at the Woodside end of the trail, by the Woodside railway station, at 11.15am.

Participants are invited to bring along a picnic and refreshments will be available.

The event will include prizes for best costumes and dogs are welcome on a lead.

Chairman of Greytown Trails Trust Gerad Taylor said it was great to have the trail finally completed.

"It's been four years since I had the initial idea, and there's been a few obstacles along the way, but it's fantastic to see it completed.

"The enthusiasm we've had from the community is amazing," Mr Taylor said.

He said the Greytown trail was one of the New Zealand's top trails.