This Content Is Only For Subscribers
A new walking and cycling trail at Wadeson Island is giving the Hokitika community improved access to the area while supporting ongoing environmental restoration.
The 300-metre trail is the first stage of a wider Wadeson Island Enhancement Project and connects with the existing Heritage Trail.
It provides a new way for people to explore the island on foot or by bike, with native planting, inanga habitat and views across the Hokitika River towards the mountains and sea.
The project is being coordinated by the Nature Economy Partnership on behalf of Development West Coast (DWC), with support from local organisations, students and community members.
Cycle Journeys, a Nature Economy Partnership business sponsor, is backing the project, with sponsorship also supporting the Wadeson Island Conservation Trust to maintain native habitat alongside the new trails.
Students from Westland High School (WHS) were involved in the trail design, marking out the route and clearing vegetation before earthworks began.
WHS 2026 head girl Zana Simpson says it was great to have the opportunity to get hands-on and contribute to a project that will benefit our community.
“As a group of students, we are proud to have been part of the project and look forward to seeing the community make use of the new trail.”
Input into the project also came from the local community, Westland District Council, Paparoa Environmental and Cycle Journeys staff.
The Department of Conservation (DoC) provided advice to ensure construction minimised disturbance to inanga habitat and helped determine the placement of culverts to manage rainfall and changing tidal conditions.
Jo Kearns from DoC says the restoration of Wadeson Island has been a long-term focus for the Department of Conservation.
“It’s encouraging to see that commitment continuing through strong community involvement. The health of this area is closely connected to the health of its waterways and wetlands, which provide important habitat for inanga and other native species.”
“At Cycle Journeys, we’re passionate about helping people get outdoors and experience the places around them, so it’s exciting to support a project that creates new opportunities for people to walk, cycle and connect with the natural environment,” says Cycle Journey chief executive Marcus Waters.
“We’re proud to be part of a local partnership that is helping bring Wadeson Island to life for the community and visitors to the West Coast.”
DWC’s Nature Economy Partnership lead Zak Shaw says the trail was already proving popular.
“It’s been fantastic to see people already enjoying the new trail and feedback from the community being really positive. The trail provides improved access to Wadeson Island and creates new opportunities for people to experience and connect with its natural environment, while showcasing the unique ecosystems and features that make Wadeson Island such a great community asset.”
The second phase of the Wadeson Island Enhancement Project is expected to begin in early 2027.
