A partial upgrade of the Gibbston River Trail, funded by the Queenstown Trails Trust, will enable an extension of the Queenstown Trail, extending the network as far as the Gibbston Back Rd.
The upgrade and extension has been made possible through the generosity of six Gibbston landowners and the support of both the Department of Conservation and the Gibbston Community Association.
QTT chief executive Mandy Kennedy said the upgrade of the Gibbston River Trail provided the ''best of both worlds''.
Following easements over private land, the trust could construct a maximum grade 2 trail, which would be wheelchair friendly, to Gibbston Back Rd, while protecting the Wentworth and Waitiri walking loops.
Gibbston Community Association chairwoman Trish MacKenzie said the upgrade would provide greater awareness of the trail, which will undoubtedly be of benefit to all businesses in Gibbston.
Gibbston Valley Station has provided a mown detour trail while the upgrade is being carried out. Work is expected to be complete by mid-March.
