Rimutaka cycle trail gets $334,000 funding
The Rimutaka Cycle Trail is a step closer to reaching its potential as one of New Zealand’s biggest tourist attractions.
The Government has allocated $334,000 for improvements on the trail, which has been touted as having the potential to rival the popular Otago Rail Trail.
Launched in October 2013 by then Prime Minister John Key, it appeared in the Lonely Planet in 2015 as one of the ‘‘hottest’’ destinations in the world.
The 115-kilometre trail runs beside the Hutt River, across the Rimutaka Range via a historic rail trail known as the Rimutaka Incline, and through Wairarapa to the coast. It then follows the coast back to Wellington.
The $334,000 will go towards a new bridge on the incline section, upgrading coastal sections and for additional toilets.
Destination Wairarapa general manager Dave Hancock said the funding would help unlock the trail’s potential. The combination of riding the historic incline section, the rugged coastal ride and visiting the Baring Head Lighthouse makes it a unique ride.
It is also the only trail in New Zealand that starts and finishes in a major city.
The trust looking after the lighthouse complex has plans to offer overnight accommodation in the old keeper’s houses. Hancock believes that will significantly boost international interest. ‘‘There are people who travel the world to see lighthouses.’’
Denise MacKenzie, who provides overnight accommodation near Featherston, said it attracted mostly Australians and New Zealanders.
Sections of the coastal track are rugged and she welcomed news of plans to improve them.
Cyclists tell her that they like its uniqueness. ‘‘You go from Wellington, the capital city, to complete wilderness and back to Wellington.’’
Stuart Edwards, who operates a firm hiring cycles and supporting riders, was delighted to hear that some of the most rugged sections were to be upgraded.
Most of his clientele were aged between 55 and 75 and some struggled on the coastal section.
Tourism Minister Kelvin Davis made the announcement this week, saying the trail needed a bridge at Siberia Stream, an upgrade to some unrideable sections, and toilet facilities on its Wild Coast section.