01 Sep 2026
1 month ago
474 views
The Government is investing an additional $400,000, building on a prior $300,000, to repair the Hauraki Rail Trail after severe storm damage, ensuring it remains a key tourism asset supporting local jobs and economic growth. Funded by the International Visitor Levy and the New Zealand Cycle Trail Fund, with contributions from the Hauraki Rail Trail Charitable Trust, the repairs focus on damaged surfaces and structures, especially in the Karangahake Gorge. The trail attracts over 32,000 visitors annually, contributing about $12 million to the local economy, and its recovery is vital for sustaining regional tourism and associated businesses.
01 Jun 2026
4 months ago
986 views
The Government is accelerating regional economic growth by funding five more trails to install 42 new e-bike charging stations, supported by a $2.5 million investment from the Electrifying the Great Rides Fund. This initiative expands eligibility to include Heartland and Connector Rides within the Ngā Haerenga network, enhancing access to rural and remote trails for tourists and locals. The funded trails include Little River Rail Trail, Hauraki Rail Trail, Great Taste Trail, Whakarewarewa Forest Loop, and Great Lake Trail, boosting the $1.28 billion economic impact of Great Rides on regional New Zealand.
01 Jun 2026
4 months ago
1063 views
The Government is investing $2.5 million to install 42 new e-bike charging stations across five regional cycle trails, enhancing accessibility and boosting tourism. This funding, part of the Electrifying the Great Rides Fund, expands eligibility to include Heartland and Connector Rides within the Ngā Haerenga network, promoting rural and remote trail exploration. The initiative supports growing e-bike usage and contributes to the $1.28 billion economic impact generated by Great Rides in regional New Zealand.
07 May 2026
5 months ago
918 views
The Government is investing up to $7.1 million to upgrade six Great Rides cycle trails, enhancing regional tourism, safety, and conservation outcomes. These improvements aim to support economic growth by creating jobs, attracting businesses, and encouraging over 2.5 million annual trail trips that contribute $1.28 billion to local economies. The projects, co-funded by the NZ Cycle Trail Fund and the Department of Conservation, will ensure the trails remain resilient, well-maintained, and accessible for future generations while promoting a sustainable Bluegreen future.
26 Apr 2026
6 months ago
1151 views
The New Zealand Government is investing over $800,000 to repair storm damage on three Great Ride cycle trails and provide marketing funds to support regional tourism recovery. Significant repairs include $300,000 for the Hauraki Rail Trail, $110,000 for the Waikato River Trail, and nearly $427,000 for Tasman’s Great Taste Trail, which contributes $34 million annually to the local economy. Additionally, targeted marketing funding aims to rebuild visitor confidence following severe weather events, reinforcing the partnership between central and local governments and supporting ongoing tourism and economic benefits.
15 Jan 2026
9 months ago
1400 views
The Government is investing $250,000 to upgrade the Whakarewarewa Forest Loop Great Ride in Rotorua, enhancing safety by rerouting the trail away from a busy highway and extending it by six kilometres. This upgrade aims to attract more visitors, support local businesses, and improve the overall tourism experience in the region. The investment is part of a broader $70 million Major Events and Tourism Package focused on boosting regional tourism infrastructure.
01 Dec 2025
10 months ago
1180 views
Tasman’s Great Taste Cycle Trail is set to reopen the Spooners Tunnel section by December after significant storm damage repairs funded by $1.6 million from the New Zealand Cycle Trail Fund. The reopening will restore a popular, family-friendly route, boosting local businesses such as bike hire, cafes, and accommodations. While an on-road detour remains between Wakefield and Belgrove, the trail’s revival offers both locals and visitors enhanced outdoor experiences and supports the regional economy.
20 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1116 views
The New Zealand Government is allocating $7.5 million over three years to maintain and manage the country’s 23 iconic Great Rides, supporting their economic, recreational, and environmental benefits. These trails attract over 2 million users annually and contribute $1.28 billion to local economies, creating jobs and boosting related businesses. The funding includes dedicated trail managers and maintenance improvements, ensuring long-term sustainability and growth of the cycle trail network.
10 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2072 views
A new cycle bridge on the West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail will bring more visitors to the region and boost the local economy. “I’m thrilled to be supporting the construction of the Totara River Rail Bridge, ensuring visitors can once again ride this popular trail from start to finish,” Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says. “The West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail is one of our Great Rides and attracts both international and domestic visitors alike, showcasing the stunning scenery of the West Coast.