Community backing has allowed the Kaikōura section of the Whale Trail to go off-road.
By David Hill of Local Democracy Reporting
The Kaikōura Community Op Shop, Encounter Foundation and Fissenden Bros Contractors have stepped up with funding for three cycle / foot bridges on a 2km stretch between Harnett’s Creek and Middle Creek, north of Kaikōura.
Local businesses have also been contracted, while additional labour have been donated by Kaikōura Cycle Club and the trail’s design manager Hamish Seaton.
The 13km Kaikōura to Hāpuku section is part of the 200km cycle / walkway being constructed from Picton to Kaikōura.
The Whale Trail project manager Nigel Muir said the bridges will allow the section to be completely off-road, as the bridges were previously not included the project’s funding.
‘‘We are incredible grateful for these generous donations.
‘‘This means we can create another magical stretch of trail close to Kaikōura.
‘‘I’m excited about the positive impact this community legacy project will have for local people and businesses.’’
Earlier this year, Mr Muir said around 115km of the 200km trail had been completed with 90km already open to the public.
Another 50-60km was due to be constructed this year.
Kaikōura Community Op Shop chairperson Lisa Bond said the op shop’s volunteers were pleased to contribute to a project with community benefits.
‘‘The project strengthens community wellbeing and social connection and enables people of all ages and abilities to use the trail for recreation.
‘‘We’re also proud to support this project which delivers clear local benefit and showcases Kaikōura’s unique coastal environment.’’
The Whale Trail is one of the last projects supported by the Encounter Foundation, which have been wound up since Encounter Kaikōura was sold last year, trustee Lynette Buurman said.
‘‘This donation helps turn planning into action and demonstrates local commitment to sustainable tourism and community wellbeing.’’
Fissenden Bros Contractors has been working on the construction of the Kaikōura section of the Whale Trail.
‘‘We have been working on building the Whale Trail for almost a year now,’’ operations manager Mark Fissenden said.
‘‘It’s been amazing to see the community use it and what a great asset this is for all of our community to enjoy.’’
The Whale Trail was first conceived following the 7.8 magnitude earthquake in November 2016.
The trail’s main funder is the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment’s Kānoa Regional Development and Investment Unit, which contributed $26m from its Covid-19 fund.
The Marlborough and Kaikōura district councils and the Rātā Foundation have also contributed funding.
– LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
SHARE ME