Thirteen new cycle trails considered

Thirteen cycle trails nationwide are a step closer to becoming part of the national cycleway.

New Zealand cycle trail programme manager John Dunn said the 13 had been selected from 54 to proceed to feasibility study stage.

All applications were outstanding but, with only $50 million to work with, only those that were "simply superior in every way" had been selected for the next stage," Mr Dunn said.

"These applications promise trails of stunning beauty and, along with the previously announced Quick Start projects, will provide a network of about 2000km of iconic great rides," he said.

They are: Tauranga Moana Coastal Cycle Trail (Tauranga); Old Motu Coach Road (Opotiki Gisborne); Thermal by Bike (Rotorua); Lake Track (Taupo); Mountains to Sea Cycleway - link (Ruapehu); Heretaunga Ararua: Land of a Hundred Pathways (Hawke's Bay); Dun Mountain and Tasman Cycle Loop (Nelson Tasman); Old Ghost Road (West Coast); Westland Wilderness Trail (Greymouth); Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail (Mt Cook); The Wakatipu Trail (Queenstown); Roxburgh Gorge Trail (Central Otago); Clutha Gold Trail (Otago).

- NZPA