MP’s propose Cycleway Journey
September 24, 2009
Local MP’s Chris Tremain and Craig Foss have proposed a Cycleway Journey from Napier to Waipukurau.
“We’re very keen to see Hawke’s Bay with an iconic Cycleway Journey. We want to see Hawke’ as Bay make a proposal to be included in the next round of allocations for the National Cycleway project” says Chris Tremain.
“Currently the Hawke’s Bay councils together with the Rotary Pathway Trusts have created an enviable network of cycle pathways. This is fantastic but what we believe is missing is an iconic Cycleway Journey – “The Wine Country Cycleway” says Chris.
The MP’s proposal is a journey that utilises the current infrastructure from Napier to the corner of Mangateretere and Te Mata Roads in Havelock North. From there the journey would continue south along Matangi road, across private land beside the Tukituki river to Blind Road and then down Middle Road to the Patangata Pub and Waipukurau. While we believe this route could be achieved relatively quickly the ultimate aim would be to bring the track down beside the river as budgets permitted.
“This would be an absolutely stunning ride through the Tukituki valley, taking in stops at Te Mata Estate, Craggy Range, and passing under the majestic Te Mata Peak” says Craig Foss.
“We have approached landowners between Matangi Road and Blind Road to request their cooperation and assistance in allowing access over their land. We are hopeful of being able to conclude an arrangement with them to benefit the wider public.” says Craig.
We believe that a journey of this nature would promote a range of small businesses especially accommodation clusters along the route. Hawke’s Bay’s striking landscapes mean it has considerable untapped potential for tourism, both domestic and international. We see part of our jobs as being to facilitate that potential being developed.
And establishment of Cycleways is consistent with Government policies encouraging exercise and healthy lifestyles says Craig, who is dusting off his own Mountain bike for the journey.
“Hawke’s Bay did not make a proposal to be included in the last round of proposals for Prime Minister John Key’s Cycleway Project. As a result we are very keen to see a bid in for the next round of Cycleway budget allocations” say the MP’s.
A route of this nature would allow communities to the south to join forces and add to the route. Who knows … In the future we may see a journey from Hawke’s Bay all the way to Martinborough?”
Its great to see the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council leading the charge here assisted by the HDC and NCC. The councils have taken the initiative to establish the HB Cycleway Steering Group that is currently working on the feasibility of a range of different routes including the Tukituki River with the aim of having a bid into the next round of budget allocations.
