Waikato River trail adds 100km section to $50m national cycleway

Lake Karapiro. Photo / NZ Herald

After eight years of construction, the 100km Waikato River Trails was opened at the weekend.

The trail is the second of 18 "great rides' to be completed under the $50 million Nga Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trail that will eventually run from the Far North to Bluff.

More than 300 people were at the Whakamaru reserve for the opening of the cycleway, which stretches from Atiamuri to the upper end of Lake Karapiro and takes in five lakes, four hydro dams and a number of small towns and villages.

Waikato River Trails Trust general manager Glyn Wooller said the construction of the Waikato River Trails began in 2003 with the support of a group of committed local people determined to create social and economic opportunities for the South Waikato community.

"That community commitment was acknowledged by the government in July 2009 when the Waikato River Trails became one of the first of the 18 great rides to secure funding under Nga Haerenga, the New Zealand Cycle Trail," Mr Wooller said.

In the last year alone 6000 native trees were planted by volunteers in wetlands and other areas along the trails.

The trust also built 18km of fencing that provides a barrier between farms and the Waikato River.

"Thanks to the unwavering support of our volunteers and the outstanding support of the project partners and land owners adjacent to the trails, the dream of the Waikato River Trails is now becoming a reality," Mr Wooller said.

"The South Waikato community and indeed all New Zealanders can be truly proud of the Waikato River Trails, a permanent new asset that will showcase the best of this beautiful region."

New Zealand Cycle Trail project manager Richard Balm said the Waikato River Trails would achieve several objectives, including boosting tourism opportunities, providing employment, and opening up public access to "the beautiful Waikato River for visitors and locals alike".

"The Waikato River Trails will offer riders and walkers the chance to experience the magic and beauty of native bush, exotic forest, historic landmarks, interesting rock formations, rolling farmland and open reserves, as well as boardwalks through significant wetlands, and expansive lake and river views," he said.