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Two new destination-making cycle trails will boost visitation to the Ruapehu district and strengthen the Central North Island economy.
Tourism and hospitality minister Louise Upston says the Government will fund the completion of the Te Ara Mangawhero and Te Hangāruru trails, connecting them into the Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono cycle journey.
“I’m thrilled to announce the Government will fund the completion of the Te Ara Mangawhero and Te Hangāruru trails, connecting them into the Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono cycle journey,” Upstotn says.
“These two routes are among the last sections needed to complete the full trail from Mount Ruapehu to the Tasman Sea, with just one section remaining before cyclists can complete the 231-kilometre journey.”
Conservation minister Tama Potaka says the project represents partnership in action and connection between people, place and environment.
“This kaupapa is linking our people, our stories and our whenua,” Potaka says. “Completing these trails will strengthen local communities and regional economies while enhancing the environment that sustains us.”
Potaka says the work is being led by Ngā Waihua o Paerangi Trust and Te Korowai o Wainuiārua, alongside Ngā Ara Tūhono Trust and the Department of Conservation.
“This is another powerful example of partnership in action,” he says. “Together, they’re creating experiences that honour the cultural and environmental significance of the land.”
“Visitors come to Aotearoa New Zealand for our landscapes, our bush and our stories,” Tama adds. “Te Ara Mangawhero and Te Hangāruru will nurture that connection — places where visitors and locals alike can experience the beauty, meaning and identity of this region.”
Connecting people, place and purpose
The $10.8 million works are due to be completed by early 2027, funded through the International Visitor Levy and the Government’s Major Events and Tourism Package. Sections of the trail will open progressively as construction advances.
Upston says projects such as these help drive visitor spending, support local businesses and create jobs.
“Our Government’s Major Events and Tourism Package has been designed to drive visitor spending, support local businesses and create jobs up and down the country,” she says.
“Ready-to-go projects like these cycle trails will bring more visitors to the region, entice them to stay longer and build confidence in the local economy.”
“Adding to the diversity of experiences in the Ruapehu district will develop long-term resilience across our tourism sector. It’s a stunning part of New Zealand and it deserves to be showcased.”
