Great Rides

In early 2009, Prime Minister John key announced there would be $50 million committed to creating a series of cycleways across both islands of New Zealand. This network of cycleways of the National Cycleway Project will be based around New Zealand's iconic attractions and existing infrastructure. Ultimately providing thousands of kilometers of trails, these Great Rides will take in the best of New Zealand's dramatic landscapes and are the future of cycle tourism in New Zealand.

Construction is presently underway on many of these trails. As the Great Rides are being built off of an infrastructure already in place, some sections of these cycleways are currently rideable. For example, the Old Coach Road Section of the Mountain to Sea trail was opened in July of this year. Of the $50 million in approved funding, $9 million was set aside to immediately start construction of the trails which were earmarked for "Quick Starts."

These seven Great Rides were selected based on a number of factors and chosen to be earmarked for a 'Quick Start.' Thanks to $9 million of the $50 Million New Zealand Cycleway Fund being set aside for these tracks, construction has already begun. Sections of the Mountain to Sea trail for example were opened by Prime Minster John Key on July the 2nd.

The Rides