Original Great Ride still flourishing

New Zealand’s Original Great Ride has some of the finest cycling trails to offer.
With a stretch of 152-kilometer trail and a gentle gradient on its Cycle Trail, it’s a unforgettable experience for cycle enthusiasts.
Set up in 1994 by the Department of Conservation to gather funds for transforming an old railway line into a walking and cycling trail, The Otago Central Rail Trail Trust is behind the investment, and The Trust has put millions into developing the Trail, including attaining the Hyde Station Building.
Today, the Trust focuses on further enhancing the Trail, generating income through grants, donations, donations, and sales of advertising and merchandise, such as the popular Otago Central Rail Trail Passport.
The Otago Central Rail Trail Charitable Trust prioritizes the balance between development and environmental conservation by working closely with the Department of Conservation, local communities, and investors.
The collaborative approach means that any improvements must align with the region’s environmental and cultural values.
“We maintain strong partnerships with landowners, particularly DOC, to ensure all projects are consistent with conservation goals and regional planning strategies,” says a spokesperson from The Otago Central Rail Trail Charitable Trust.
Regular monthly meetings invite feedback and ideas from the community and its investors.
Partnership with DOC
The collaboration between DOC and the Otago Central Rail Trail Charitable Trust key to the trail’s ongoing success.
“Together, we’re able to combine resources, skills, and knowledge to achieve more across the trail—whether that’s conservation work, infrastructure improvements, or enhancing the visitor experience.”
Visitors
Attracting a diverse group of visitors, from solo travellers and school groups to families and international visitors, the Trust says “It’s relatively flat and wide, making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.”
Visitors are drawn to the go at your own pace, multi-day cycling experience, enjoying Otago’s scenery, and where visitors can experience the regions varied hospitality of accommodation and restaurants.
Visitor Experience
The Trust continuously works on upgrades to the trail experience through improved facilities and community-led activities.
Currently, The Trust is focusing on expanding educational resources on the site, Rail Tales, which offers integrated educational content.
“A new topic has been recently released about the region’s unique ecology, tailored especially for educational groups and visitors keen to deepen their understanding of the trail’s natural heritage.”
Other upgrades include improved connectivity between the Otago Central Rail Trail and the historic Taieri Gorge Train.
Upgrades on the trail will also improve the experience, with plans for more shelters and seating, upgraded trail surfaces, and improved entry points designed for wider adaptive bikes.
“Together, these initiatives reflect a strong commitment to both preserving the heritage of the trail and evolving the experience for future generations of visitors.”