Articles tagged with Great Rides

Showing 7 of 7 articles

Government Invests $400K to Repair Hauraki Rail Trail After Storm Damage

01 Sep 2026 | 1 week ago | 144 views

The Government is investing an additional $400,000, building on a prior $300,000, to repair the Hauraki Rail Trail after severe storm damage, ensuring it remains a key tourism asset supporting local jobs and economic growth. Funded by the International Visitor Levy and the New Zealand Cycle Trail Fund, with contributions from the Hauraki Rail Trail Charitable Trust, the repairs focus on damaged surfaces and structures, especially in the Karangahake Gorge. The trail attracts over 32,000 visitors annually, contributing about $12 million to the local economy, and its recovery is vital for sustaining regional tourism and associated businesses.

Tags: Louise Upston Hauraki Rail Trail Ohinemuri River Karangahake Gorge New Zealand Cycle Trail Fund International Visitor Levy Ngā Haerenga Tourism Minister New Zealand Government Great Rides

Government Invests $2.5M in 42 New E-Bike Charging Stations Across NZ Trails

01 Jun 2026 | 3 months ago | 674 views

The Government is accelerating regional economic growth by funding five more trails to install 42 new e-bike charging stations, supported by a $2.5 million investment from the Electrifying the Great Rides Fund. This initiative expands eligibility to include Heartland and Connector Rides within the Ngā Haerenga network, enhancing access to rural and remote trails for tourists and locals. The funded trails include Little River Rail Trail, Hauraki Rail Trail, Great Taste Trail, Whakarewarewa Forest Loop, and Great Lake Trail, boosting the $1.28 billion economic impact of Great Rides on regional New Zealand.

Tags: Louise Upston Government Electrifying the Great Rides Fund Hawke’s Bay Trails Remutaka Cycle Trail Ngā Haerenga Little River Rail Trail Hauraki Rail Trail Great Taste Trail Whakarewarewa Forest Loop

Government Funds 42 New E-Bike Charging Stations Across NZ Cycle Trails

01 Jun 2026 | 3 months ago | 766 views

The Government is investing $2.5 million to install 42 new e-bike charging stations across five regional cycle trails, enhancing accessibility and boosting tourism. This funding, part of the Electrifying the Great Rides Fund, expands eligibility to include Heartland and Connector Rides within the Ngā Haerenga network, promoting rural and remote trail exploration. The initiative supports growing e-bike usage and contributes to the $1.28 billion economic impact generated by Great Rides in regional New Zealand.

Tags: Louise Upston Government Electrifying the Great Rides Fund Hawke’s Bay Trails Remutaka Cycle Trail Ngā Haerenga Little River Rail Trail Hauraki Rail Trail Great Taste Trail Whakarewarewa Forest Loop

Government Invests $7.1M to Upgrade Six Great Rides Cycle Trails in NZ

06 May 2026 | 4 months ago | 675 views

The Government is investing up to $7.1 million to upgrade six Great Rides cycle trails, enhancing regional tourism, safety, and conservation outcomes. These improvements aim to support economic growth by creating jobs, attracting businesses, and encouraging over 2.5 million annual trail trips that contribute $1.28 billion to local economies. The projects, co-funded by the NZ Cycle Trail Fund and the Department of Conservation, will ensure the trails remain resilient, well-maintained, and accessible for future generations while promoting a sustainable Bluegreen future.

Tags: Louise Upston Tama Potaka New Zealand Great Rides Ngā Haerenga Roxburgh Gorge Trail Queen Charlotte Track St James Cycle Trail Otago Central Rail Trail Remutaka Cycle Trail

New $7.5M Funding Boost Ensures Future of NZ’s Iconic Great Rides

20 Nov 2025 | 9 months ago | 876 views

The New Zealand Government is allocating $7.5 million over three years to maintain and manage the country’s 23 iconic Great Rides, supporting their economic, recreational, and environmental benefits. These trails attract over 2 million users annually and contribute $1.28 billion to local economies, creating jobs and boosting related businesses. The funding includes dedicated trail managers and maintenance improvements, ensuring long-term sustainability and growth of the cycle trail network.

Tags: Louise Upston New Zealand Great Rides Ngā Haerenga John Key Tourism Cycle Trail Fund Ruapehu Dunedin

New Zealand’s Great Rides Boost Local Economy by $1.28 Billion in 2025

18 Nov 2025 | 9 months ago | 1072 views

New Zealand’s 23 Great Rides contribute $1.28 billion annually to local economies, with visitor spending rising 35% from 2021 to 2025, according to the latest evaluation report. Visitor nights and trail usage have also increased significantly, boosting accommodation and hospitality sectors and supporting regional jobs. The Government invests $8 million yearly from the International Visitor Levy and additional funds into trail infrastructure to sustain growth and economic benefits.

Tags: Louise Upston Sir John Key New Zealand Great Rides Tourism Hospitality Ruapehu Dunedin International Visitor Levy

Government Invests $2M to Expand Dunedin Tunnels Trail, Boosting Tourism and Local Economy

14 Nov 2025 | 9 months ago | 995 views

The Government is investing $2 million to extend the Dunedin Tunnels Trail, aiming to boost tourism in the Otago region and support local businesses while creating job opportunities. The project will expand the trail to Fairfield, Abbotsford, Green Island, Kaikorai Valley, and Caversham Tunnel, forming a 15-kilometre route between Mosgiel and Dunedin. This initiative is part of the Government's Major Events and Tourism Package and is expected to enhance the cycling network and tourism sector in the region.

Tags: Louise Upston Government Dunedin Tunnels Trail Tourism Otago region Cycling destination New Zealand Great Rides Major Events Economic impact