MPs welcome cycle trail for Hawke’s Bay
July 7, 2010
Local MPs Chris Tremain and Craig Foss welcome the go ahead today for a cycleway in Hawke’s Bay as part of The New Zealand Cycle Trail project.
“The go ahead and Government investment of $1.88 million is great news for Hawke’s Bay,” say both MPs.
“Funding was today approved for the Heretaunga Ararua “Landscapes” trail under the iconic Te Mata Peak. This trail loops around the Tukituki Valley, Te Mata Peak, Havelock North and includes a section along the coast between Haumoana and Te Awanga.
The original bid included a second trail “The Wetlands Trail” located to the west of the airport traversing the Ahuriri Estuary and wetlands all the way to Bay View. This bid has not been successful at this stage but is still very much in the mix with the Government requiring more feasibility work to be completed.
The Heretaunga Ararau “Landscapes” trail is one of eight new cycle tracks to have its funding confirmed ahead of schedule. Funding of $18.85 million ($1.88 million in Hawke’s Bay) will go towards the construction of more than 1000 kilometres of track. Co-funding of $16 million for the eight tracks shows the significant commitment of local communities.
“We hope to see construction on the first Hawke’s Bay trail well underway this summer,” says Chris Tremain.
“This is an outstanding idea and encapsulates the spirit of the ‘Great Rides’ that will make up the national cycle trail, and take cyclists through some of New Zealand’s most iconic and picturesque country.
“The trail will showcase the best New Zealand has to offer. It will also support regional economic and employment activity” says Craig Foss. “It’s all a part of turning Hawke’s Bay into the cycling capital of New Zealand”.
“This means jobs for locals during the construction phase and more importantly long-term jobs through accommodation and other support services.”
Fresh on the news of the airport extension and the Regional Museum Development this additional announcement will really help to “Back the Bay”.
“Our community put in an enormous effort to complete a quality feasibility study over the past few months. Thanks to Venture Hawke’s Bay and the Regional Council for all their hard work. We can’t wait for construction work to begin,” the MPs say.
