A cycle and walkway linking Bluff to Invercargill has now been completed.

The 25km trail will become part of the Te Araroa Trail, a 3000km off-road walkway that stretches the length of the country between Cape Reinga and Bluff.

Environment Southland lead transport planner Russell Hawkes said it gave walkers, runners and cyclists the ability to see a picturesque part of the region from a completely new perspective.

“This is the culmination of a project that has been many years in the making. We are thrilled to see the hard work and contributions of a range of supporters come to fruition. Now that the trail is open and available for use we are keen to let Southlanders know it’s there and available for them.” 

Advertisement: ComplEat Wellness

Invercargill City Council roading manager Russell Pearson said the Council was pleased to have been part of the project.

“We’re happy to see the trail completed and ready to be enjoyed by our community. 

“It’s always great when we can highlight the connections Invercargill City Council has with other agencies and can see what good work comes from when we put our heads together. 

“We hope everyone takes the opportunity to have a cycle on at least part of the trail, as it is great to get a new perspective from the saddle of a bike, rather than through the window of a car.” 

Advertisement: Awarua Synergy

The trail is a joint project between Environment Southland and Invercargill City Council, with significant funding contributions from Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency and Te Araroa Trails Trust. Financial support has also been provided by the ILT Foundation and Community Trust South.

An official opening ceremony will take place early 2022 once interpretation panels have been installed at six locations on the trail. They will tell the Ngāi Tahu story of a journey. There will also be wayfinding signage, seating and at least one shelter.

More information on the trail and a map can be found here www.es.govt.nz/trail