The Great Taste Cycle Trail in Tasman is set to reopen in time for summer, with $1.6 million in government funding to fix storm damage.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said the investment would help bring visitors back to the region. “This funding means the trail can reopen in time for summer, bringing visitors back to the stunning Nelson Tasman region, and supporting local businesses, jobs and communities,” she said.
Severe weather in June and July caused widespread flooding and wind damage along the trail. The money will be used to repair damaged sections, replace infrastructure, and create alternative routes where riverbank paths are no longer usable.
“Reopening the trail will be a real win for the region, which has faced a tough winter,” Upston said. “It’s not just about tourism, it’s about reconnecting communities and giving locals and visitors alike a chance to enjoy the outdoors and explore everything Nelson-Tasman has to offer.
“Good progress is being made to repair sections of the trail in readiness for the busy summer season. While more work is needed to reopen the section between Wakefield and Belgrove, getting most of the trail back up and running for summer will be a big boost for local businesses, including bike hire and tour operators, cafes and accommodation providers along the route.”
The 200km Great Taste Cycle Trail is one of 23 Great Rides that make up Ngā Haerenga, the New Zealand Cycle Trails network. Together, the rides attract more than 2 million users each year, contributing around $1 billion to regional economies.
The funding comes from the New Zealand Cycle Trail Fund, supported by revenue from the International Conservation and Visitor Levy.
