Queenstown took a "little step" closer to becoming New Zealand's No 1 destination for walking and cycling trails on Saturday when the 6.2km Jardine Park to Jacks Point Clubhouse Lakeside Trail was officially "reopened".
More than 100 walkers and cyclists gathered at Jardine Park, in Kelvin Heights, for the reopening by Wakatipu Trails Trust patron Sir Eion Edgar and Community Trust of Southland trustee Craig Robins.
Clutha-Southland MP Bill English was to have performed the task but was giving the eulogy for a close friend in Dipton.
Trails Trust trustee Terry Stevens, of Gibbston, thanked Queenstown Lakes District Council Mayor Clive Geddes and chief executive Duncan Field for their support of the trust since its inception.
He also acknowledged the support of the Community Trust and Central Lakes Trust and the support of the Trails Trust committee.
"Wakatipu Trails Trust, along with our partners QLDC and the Department of Conservation, decided to create a world-class network of trails around the Wakatipu Basin.
"We think it will continue to grow and be a beautiful trail to access for both the local community and our visitors."
While the Lakeside Trail was already in existence, it needed to be upgraded for Doc to take over the management and maintenance of the track.
The physical works began in September, by Wilsons Contractors Ltd.
Sir Eion said the trail was "one of the most fun things he had been involved with".
The Wakatipu Trails Trust already had plans to extend the Lakeside Track to Wye Creek, on State Highway 6 between Jacks Point and Kingston, he said.
"There are negotiations going on with the Jardine [family], Jacks Point and adjoining property owners."
Once the group had walked or cycled the trail, Trails Trust chief executive Kaye Parker extended her thanks to John Darby and the Jacks Point staff, particularly property and clubhouse administrator Sara Roy.
"We have worked so closely together . . .
Jacks Point have given us the gravel at the trail at a net cost, which has saved us a lot of money.
"I love their vision of opening this resort for everyone.
Mrs Parker said several key elements made world-class trails - "outstanding scenery, top-class accommodation, refreshments and cultural activities and other activities nearby".
"Queenstown has that in spades.
"We can be the No 1 cycle and walking destination in New Zealand and that is our aim.
"Today is a little step [closer] to doing that.
Mrs Parker said the Trails Trust would be holding a walking and cycling event on February 23 for people to walk or cycle four "fabulous trails".
All the trails would lead back to the Queenstown Events Centre, where the trust would hold a party to celebrate its fundraising.
It aims to raise $25,000.
