As well as the new 40km Kawatiri Coastal Trail, others include the Old Ghost Road (85km), Paparoa Track (55km), West Coast Wilderness Trail (140km), Lake Brunner (15km), Heaphy Track (78km), Pike 29 Track (11km), and Fox Glacier (6.4km).
A new cycle trail cuts through Punakaiki township, and mountain bike tracks are scattered throughout the West Coast, giving rise to talk of a regional cycle strategy to market the West Coast as a cycling destination.
Development West Coast destination and tourism manager Andrew Aitken said the completion of the Kawatiri Coastal Trail would further strengthen the Coast’s reputation as a premier destination for outdoor adventure and cycling.
"With visitor spending in Buller increasing nearly 15% over the past year, the Kawatiri Coastal Trail will only accelerate that growth.
"This is an outstanding asset that not only highlights our spectacular landscapes but also encourages visitors to extend their stay, explore more, and support local businesses."
Kawatiri Coastal Trail trust chairman Richard Niederer first attended an informal meeting at the Star Tavern at Cape Foulwind in 2015, and subsequently prepared a funding proposal with Stu Henley and Steve White. It won $9 million funding support from the Provincial Growth Fund.
Since the first leg opened December 2020 the coastal trail has seen 135,000 visitors.
The final section connects from the Totara River to the Nile River, on the outskirts of Charleston township.
The Kawatiri Trail boasts four suspension bridges and while it was built by Westreef, the backbone has taken more volunteer hours than Mr Niederer can count.
Cycle Journeys is now offering a shuttle service and the trust has appointed trail manager Edee Richards as part of the transition away from the construction phase.
Mr Niederer said cyclists had been sneaking on to the new section, and some felt it was the best section. Others loved the Omau/Tauranga Bay section.
Mr Niederer said he thought the Coast was becoming its own cycle destination.
"It’s something we need to work on. Look at Central Otago — we’ve probably got as much here and more variety."
Buller Mayor Jamie Cleine thought the West Coast and Buller were definitely on the cycle map, and the influx was making a significant economic contribution.
"We are seeing that in the number of cars and vans with bikes strapped to the back.
"I think we have something for everyone, which is really good." — Greymouth Star
