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A new trail at Wadeson Island has been officially opened, marking an important step in improving community access, enhancing native habitat and creating more opportunities for people to connect with the West Coast’s natural environment.
Coordinated by Development West Coast’s Nature Economy Partnership (NEP), the trail builds on years of conservation work at Wadeson Island and is representative of the ongoing efforts to enhance the area.
The opening brought together project partners, Westland High School students and community members for a morning of exploring the trail, learning about the island’s history and ecology, and planting native plants to support habitat enhancement.
Cycle Journeys, a silver sponsor of the Nature Economy Partnership, is supporting the project through its business sponsorship. The funding also helps resource the Wadeson Island Conservation Trust to maintain native habitat alongside the trails on behalf of the community.
Marcus Waters, chief executive of Cycle Journeys, says the project aligned with the company’s Leave Better Programme, which focuses on making a positive contribution to the places the company operates.
“Supporting the Wadeson Island trail is a great fit for our Leave Better commitment. It creates more opportunities for locals and visitors to explore this special part of Hokitika, while helping protect and enhance the natural habitat that makes it unique. We’re proud to work alongside local partners to create something the community can enjoy and benefit from for years to come.”
Wadeson Island Conservation Trust representative Chris Watson welcomed the opportunity to bring people together and build on the work already undertaken to care for the island.
“The day was a chance for everyone to make a practical contribution to the island’s future. Just as importantly, the sunshine created a relaxed atmosphere for good conversations, making connections and building relationships. These partnerships and that shared sense of ownership are vital to ensuring Wadeson Island continues to be enjoyed and cared for by the community,” he says
Following the trail walk and planting activity, attendees gathered for a community lunch and speeches involving project partners, including the Department of Conservation, Cycle Journeys, Westland High School, Wadeson Island Conservation Trust, Westland District Council and Development West Coast.
Westland Mayor Helen Lash commended everyone involved, highlighting the difference the new trail is already making for Hokitika residents.
“For some of our older residents, having an even, predictable walking surface makes a real difference to their confidence and ability to get outdoors. I’ve heard firsthand from people who can now explore parts of Wadeson Island they couldn’t comfortably access before. The trail is encouraging people to get out, walk more often and enjoy the natural beauty on their doorstep. It’s a great example of how thoughtful improvements to our local spaces can support healthier, more connected communities,” she says.
Nature Economy Partnership lead Zak Shaw highlighted Wadeson Island as an excellent example of regenerative tourism in action, where collaboration between local businesses, community organisations and conservation groups is helping restore the natural environment while creating lasting benefits for the community. He also outlined opportunities to build on this work, with the next phase of enhancements anticipated in 2027.
