Southern Lakes Trails chief executive Janeen Wood said in a media statement yesterday the official opening of the 32km cycle trail between Bannockburn and the Gibbston Valley would be on September 19, weather permitting.
The statement did not give a reason for the delay from the ‘‘end of summer’’ opening that was indicated by the trust in December.
However, Ms Wood said construction crews were making ‘‘strong progress across the trail’’, with helicopters proving to be effective in transporting the trail’s gravel surface material into the remote gorge environment.
Travellers through the Kawarau Gorge could see progress on the steel structures upstream from Roaring Meg.
The final stage of construction would focus on the completion of two suspension bridges across the Kawarau River, at Nevis Ferry and Citroen Rapids.
They were being deliberately left until last to prevent premature public access to the trail before all its safety features and signage were fully installed.
‘‘This is a true backcountry trail — users will need to be confident, prepared and self-sufficient.
‘‘It is remote in places, physically demanding and designed for people looking for more of an adventure.
‘‘If riders found sections of the Lake Dunstan Trail challenging or uncomfortable, then this trail may not be suitable for them.
‘‘For others, this is the next level — a rewarding journey through an incredible landscape.’’
Once open, the trail will unlock a 530km continuous network across Queenstown and Central Otago that will extend to Waihola, about 40km southwest of Dunedin. — Allied Media
