A 10km section of the Remutaka Cycle Trail taking cyclists directly into Featherston from Cross Creek, is now officially part of the Great Rides network.
The Remutaka Cycle Trail is one of the Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trails Great Rides network and connects Wellington with Wairarapa, winding through the Hutt River valley, old railway tunnels and farmland.
The trail is 115km long in total but has not previously included Featherston. That will now change with funders the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment according the 10km section Great Rides status. This means the route will now qualify for additional funding for maintenance and promotion.
Remutaka Cycle Trail’s James Lamb said the extension to the trail had been planned for some time and gives cyclists more options to explore the Wairarapa.
“The extension may only be 10km long but it is a great addition to the Great Rides trail and suitable for all ages and levels.”
South Wairarapa District Council Mayor Martin Connelly said the new part of the route was a win-win for cyclists and Featherston.
“This section of the Remutaka Cycle Trail provides people with a safe and accessible route to Featherston, the gateway to the Wairarapa, and will bring people into the town to experience its hospitality, history and retail opportunities.
“We are thrilled to see this included in the Great Rides network – more people will get to experience the charms of the town which is well-known for its quirky collectable shops, and great gourmet cafes.”
The route will also connect to The Wairarapa Five Towns Trail Network project that aims to develop almost 200km of recreational trails for walking and cycling, linking Martinborough, Featherston, Greytown, Carterton and Masterton.
There are a number of entry points to the Remutaka Cycle Trail enabling cyclists to tailor their ride to suit – as an indication the section from Petone to Featherston is about 70km. The connection also provides an alternative route on the trail after landslips prompted the temporary closure of the Wild Coast section near Corner Creek.
For more information on the Remutaka Cycle Trail see: Remutaka Cycle Trail – WellingtonNZ
