Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail project signed its contract for the new Lake Track cycle trail at a formal event in Taupo yesterday.
The trail is a joint initiative of Bike Taupo, Department of Conservation, Taupo District Council, local community supporters and The New Zealand Cycle Trail project.
New Zealand Cycle Trail Project Manager Richard Balm says Bike Taupo had done an excellent job on the planning for the trail, making today's contract signing possible.
"The idea of having a trail along the western shore of Lake Taupo has been a dream for a long time. The stunning scenery, native forest, close proximity to the lake and easy track gradient will make this trail very popular for both cyclists and walkers," Mr Balm says.
"The first 33km of the trail has already been constructed by Bike Taupo under an existing agreement with the Department of Conservation. It includes the popular W2K Track. The funding from The New Zealand Cycle Trail project will be used to construct the remaining 60 kilometres of the track through to the Waihaha Road Bridge on State Highway 32."
The 93km trail will start 15 minutes drive west of Taupo in Whakaipo Bay and pass through the village of Kinloch before reaching the Waihaha River and State Highway 32. Riders will have the choice of riding the full trail over 3 days or selecting from a range of shorter riding options. Primary access to the trail will be by road and/or water taxi.
Bike Taupo Lake Track Committee Chairman Alan Vane says Bike Taupo is absolutely delighted that the Government has seen the wisdom of making funding available for development of the Lake Track.
"The Lake Track will be great for the Taupo district. It will offer exciting new business and tourism opportunities including overnight accommodation, ferries to-and-from Taupo to connect with the cycle trail, boat trips, track drop off and pick up, camping, biking, walking, events and kayaking.
"This is exactly the type of development Taupo needs to continue to build on its reputation as a year-round summer and winter playground." Mr Vane says.
"Bike Taupo would also like to acknowledge the private land owners who have given authorisation to have the trail cross their land. Without their support, the development of this trail would not be possible."
"The Lake Track will be one of a series of 18 Great Rides that will showcase the best that New Zealand has to offer in terms of New Zealand's landscape, culture and communities," Mr Balm says.
For more information on Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail Project, please go to www.tourism.govt.nz/cycleway.
