Hundred Percent Pure Cycling
It will soon be time for adrenalin junkies to cycle three thousand km round New Zealand whilst the more sedate walk it…
The first new section of New Zealand’s national cycleway was officially launched on Friday 2 July. Two major sections of the Ruapehu – Whanganui Nga Ara Tuhono trail were officially opened by New Zealand Prime Minister Mr John Key – who was the first to cycle on the trail itself.
This is the first stage of a huge project linking a series of 20 ‘Great New Zealand rides’, including existing and newly created routes, providing a 3000 km cycling route travelling the length of New Zealand. The cycle routes will be spread throughout the North and South Islands, and located in areas with great natural scenery, interesting regional stories and culture.
The two newly opened trails are the Old Coach Road day ride and the Mangapurua Track, which forms part of the Ruapehu – Whanganui Nga Ara Tuhono trail traversing two national parks in New Zealand’s central North Island. Tongariro National Park is renowned for its spectacular volcanic alpine scenery, while Whanganui National Park is a vast and remote wilderness area.
The finished trail is expected to take four to six days to complete at a length 245 km, with varying levels of difficulty. Parts of the trail, such as the newly-launched Old Coach Road section, can also be done as day or overnight rides.
The Old Coach Road section is anticipated to be one of the most popular rides on the trail. The section is a family-friendly 11 km day ride from Ohakune to Horopito – following what used to be the railheads of the main truck highway line before it was completed in 1909.
The longer Mangapurua Track ride will take two days (40km) and goes from Raetihi to Mangapurua Landing. It is suitable for more experienced cyclists and is open to walkers.
The Mangapurua Track is an historical highlight of the cycle trail, as it crosses the Bridge to Nowhere and passes through Mangapurua Valley soldiers settlement within Whanganui National Park.
For more information on the NZ cycleway project go to www.tourism.govt.nz/cycletrail and more travelling to New Zealand visit www.newzealand.com
Valere Tjolle
Valere Tjolle is editor of the Sustainable Tourism Report Suite, special offer at: www.travelmole.com/stories/1142003.php
Valere
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