A damaged cycle bridge for the Great Taste Trail, can be seen in the middle of the photo. Photo: Samantha Gee / RNZ
A section of the badly damaged Great Taste Cycle Trail in Tasman is set to reopen the by the end of the year, after significant progress has been made repairing storm damage.
The 200 kilometre cycle trail suffered more than $2 million in damage caused by flooding and slips during June and July, with parts of it completely washed out.
The southern section from Kohatu to Spooners Tunnel has reopened and the northern section from Spooners Tunnel to Belgrove is due to reopen at the end of December.
The New Zealand Cycle Trail Fund put $1.6m towards track repairs, with the funding announced by Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston during a visit to the Tasman District in September.
She said since the storms, a major on-road detour meant the trail wasn't suitable for families or beginner cyclists. A number of tourism and hospitality businesses had also been affected by its closure through winter.
"Having Tasman's Great Taste Trail ready for summer means more people can enjoy one of New Zealand's most scenic rides. It's great news for visitors and the local community."
Nelson Tasman Cycle Trails Trust chair Gillian Wratt with Tourism Minister Louise Upston on the Great Taste Trail. Photo: RNZ / Samantha Gee
Upston said having the majority of the trail reinstated would be a big boost for businesses, including bike hire, tour operators, cafes and accommodation providers.
"Bringing the trail back gives locals and visitors alike the chance to enjoy the outdoors and experience everything Nelson Tasman has to offer."
Nelson Tasman Cycle Trails Trust chair Gillian Wratt previously told RNZ it was heartbreaking to see the damage, especially given the track had been in really good condition.
Economic analysis in 2022 showed the trail brought $34m in direct economic benefit to the region through visitor spending, with an estimated 200,000 people using the trail each year.
The section from Pokororo Bridge to Ngatimoti remains closed, with a detour via the Westbank Rd to Riwaka. An on-road detour will also remain between Wakefield and Belgrove while plans for future repairs are finalised.
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