Network Expansion Project

The initial focus of ‘Nga Haerenga – The New Zealand Cycle Trail’ (NZCT) has been on developing a series of 18 Great Rides.  These are predominantly off-road cycle trails that showcase the best of New Zealand.

However, it has always been a longer term objective of the NZCT to develop an expanded network of rides, creating links between the Great Rides, other key tourist attractions, urban centres and transport hubs throughout New Zealand.  The Network Expansion Project has a long term vision of creating a nationwide cycling network that:

• Attracts more international visitors to New Zealand;
• Gets more New Zealanders cycling;
• Spreads the economic benefits of cycle tourism throughout regional New Zealand; and
• Provides an attractive alternative to cycling on busy state highways and arterial routes.

This will involve mapping and signposting existing roads and cycle paths.  There will be gaps in the network as it develops, as it will take some time before some cycle routes are able to meet the NZCT’s criteria.   

The first cycle touring routes under the New Zealand Cycle Trail, which were opened in August 2011, include routes that connect Taumarunui to New Plymouth (including part of the Forgotten World Highway), Taumarunui to the Ruapehu-Whanganui Trails and the Pureora Timber Trail to Taumarunui.  Click here for more information about these rides.

Applying to be part of The New Zealand Cycle Trail

The NZCT team, based within the Ministry of Economic Development, is inviting proposals from local authorities, cycling groups and other interested stakeholders around New Zealand for cycling routes to be included under the NZCT. Click on the links below for more information including the criteria by which routes will be assessed and an application form:

• NZCT Route Planning & Selection Guidelines
• Cycle Trail Design Guide
• NZCT Application Form

Other useful links:

• Cycle Network and Route Planning Guide, Land Transport Safety Authority (2005)