The Southern Lakes Trails Trust project manager Mark Townsley said positive relationships with the two affected landowners — Jack Miller and James Russell — and Barrie Wills from the Roxburgh Gorge Trails Trust had been beneficial during the scoping and design phase of the project.
"We are all looking forward to delivering this epic trail as a team now with our contractor."
Work had begun on the trail, which was expected to open in February 2027.
The new section would primarily follow existing farm tracks, rising above the lake edge on to natural terraces.
That alignment allowed the trail to be shaped around important heritage, geological and ecological features, preserving the unique character of the gorge.
‘‘Due to the similarities to the route through Lake Dunstan and Kawarau Gorge Trails, we were able to employ techniques and experience we have developed through those two projects.
‘‘When finished, this trail will have the added benefit of not being in sight or sound of the highway. You really get the feeling of what the gold mining pioneers would have felt back in the day."
Generous support from the Central Lakes Trust, Otago Community Trust, and Ngā Haerenga — New Zealand Cycle Trails had enabled the project to move forward, Mr Townsley said.
Once completed, the enhanced trail would offer a seamless ride from Alexandra to Roxburgh. The jet boat experience was expected to continue for riders who wanted to learn about the area’s rich history, give their legs a rest or choose to complete the ride with a boat return.
Two small bridges at Gorge Creek and Shingle Creek would be among the final components installed, along with connections to the existing trail ends at Doctors Point and Shingle Creek.
Closing the gap marked a major milestone in developing an interconnected network of off-road trails stretching from Queenstown to Waihola, eventually linking to Dunedin. The Lake Dunstan Trail opened in 2021, and the Kawarau Gorge Trail is set to open early next year. Together, the routes would offer more than 555km of diverse landscapes, experiences and stunning Central Otago scenery.
The Southern Lakes Trails Trust was also progressing plans for the Cromwell-to-Wānaka link, with development expected to ramp up in the new year, Mr Townsley said. — Allied Media
