Walkers, runners and cyclists of all ages and stages can now enjoy a more comfortable and safe stretch of trail along Underhill Road in Featherston.  

The new purpose built trail is 2.2 kilometres long and was finished on 31 May this year, thanks to funding that came entirely from central government. This was from the COVID-19 Infrastructure Investment Fund, administered by Kanoa.

“The South Wairarapa District Council is extremely appreciative of central government funding for this new 2.2 kilometre stretch of trail, which brings safety and enjoyment to the growing number of recreation users in our district.  We’re grateful for the expertise of local contractors and volunteers to bring this trail to life,” says James O’Connor, Manager of Community Operations.

This new trail has smooth grading along its gravel pathway and also connects Underhill Road to a bridge over the Tauwharenīkau River, which has the longest suspended deck in New Zealand. Work on the new trail was done by Pope & Gray to bring it up to a high standard for recreation users.

The long term plan is to connect this trail to an extensive network of approximately 89.5 kilometres of purpose built trails and additional experience loops of another 103.5 kilometres. These will extend throughout the Wairarapa region, connecting the five main towns and include diverse interesting side tracks.

The new Underhill Road trail was completed on 31 May after two months of construction work.