Iconic Cycle Track

Taupo could soon be welcoming another great cycle track into the stable of tracks that makes the central North Island such an exciting cycling destination. Local cycling advocates Bike Taupo are welcoming news that the Ministry of Tourism has granted their bid to undertake a feasibility study into a track from Whakaipo Bay through to Waihaha on the western side of the lake. The new track will extend the current track from Kawakawa Bay to Waihaha.

After the initial seven ‘quick start’ trails picked to get ‘Nga Haerenga- The New Zealand Cycle Trail’ started, the Taupo track has been identified as part of phase two of the national cycle trail project. Granted as one of 13 projects from across the country to be funded by the Ministry of Tourism, a feasibility study is now required to be undertaken by Bike Taupo. This study will involve pricing and checking the visions proposed in the concept plans to ensure the tracks can be built and will deliver what they promise.

Bike Taupo will develop this study, which will involve consultation with landowners in the area. “This consultation process is already underway, and has been for some time, so it is really important for us to continue to work with landowners in making this happen” says Alan Vane from Bike Taupo. “We have already been talking to some landowner representatives in the area, as well as the Department of Conservation, and other organisations. Ongoing discussions are important for us to achieve what will be a fantastic cycling experience in a part of the region which is otherwise hard to get to and has stunning scenery.”