Trail trust welcomes new tracks

John Key
John Key
The Otago Central Rail Trail trust is happy to be the trailblazer for a network of cycle tracks throughout the country and has no qualms about the competition.

Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism John Key announced yesterday the seven potential routes that will receive "quick start" funding for feasibility studies.

The tourism ministry also outlined more details about the cycleway plans and praised the Otago Central Rail Trail for doing " a fantastic job raising the profile of cycle tourism in New Zealand."

A recent survey revealed the trail attracts about 10,000 users annually, generating about $7 million for the local economy and creating the equivalent of 75 full-time jobs.

The 152km trail from Clyde to Middlemarch follows the former railway line.

Trust chairwoman Daphne Hull said the trust supported the national cycleway project and was delighted to be listed as a success story.

The other trails being established would complement the Central Otago one.

"I do feel fairly confident that no other trail will offer what ours does. This is an area with unique scenery and of course, each different trail will offer something different.

"Some people will come here exclusively to do just one trail while others will go on to complete other trails as well and that's a marketing advantage for all of us."

Mrs Hull said the rail trail was fortunate to have been established in partnership with the Department of Conservation.

"Forming a partnership with a corporate body, central or local government will be vital for the success of the other trails proposed. There's lots of legalities to sort out, funding to source and maintenance costs to cover."

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