Grand opening of Motu Trails planned

Motu Trails, the fourth Great Ride due to be completed under Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail will be officially opened at Memorial Park Reserve, Opotiki on Sunday 11 March.

The Motu Trails consist of four cycle networks, taking riders through a diverse range of landscapes, natural beauty and history. The trails boast spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, panoramic views of the greater Eastern Bay of Plenty, beautiful bush-clad country with plenty of native birdlife and the magnificent Pakihi Stream.

The largely intermediate level trail is one of the 18 Great Rides under The New Zealand Cycle Trail and tipped to become a major attraction for visitors to the East Cape.

New Zealand Cycle Trail Programme Manager John Dunn, rode the trail recently with Governance Group members.

“We were blessed with the best day of summer so far. The Dunes Trail is an ideal ride for all ages and abilities - the surface is great. The views of the Pacific Ocean are just spectacular,” Mr Dunn says.

“The Pakihi Track is a true mountain biking trail, suited for more advanced riders who can navigate the 20km downhill track that follows the Pakihi Stream. Even though the lower half of the track is currently under construction, I would rate it as one of the best downhill rides in the North Island,” Mr Dunn says.

Opotiki District Council CEO Alieen Lawrie says the East Cape is an outstanding cycling destination. “The region is cycle-friendly, has fantastic weather enabling businesses to capitalise on a longer cycling season. It’s a win-win situation for everyone.”

The project has been a collaborative effort between local agencies - the Opotiki District Council, Gisborne District Council, Whakatohea Maori Trust Board and the Department of Conservation, and The New Zealand Cycle Trail. Over $2.9 million has been invested into the development of the Motu Trails.

“The official opening acknowledges all of the people who have worked hard over the past two years to make the Motu Trails a visitor draw card for the regions,” Aileen Lawrie says.

EVENT DETAILS

A dawn blessing will be held prior to the Grand Opening at the Matawai Bridge, corner of Matawai and Motu Road at 6:00am.

The Motu Trails will be officially opened at 9:30am at the Pakowhai ki Otutaopuku Bridge, Memorial Park Reserve, Albert Street, Opotiki, on Sunday 11 March.

Key attendees will include local MP Anne Tolley, Green Party MP Kevin Hague, Opotiki Mayor John Forbes and Gisborne Mayor Meng Foon.

This is a public event and members of the public are encouraged to bring their bikes and a picnic for a relaxing day out. After the official proceedings, members of the public are also invited to take part in a 19km return ride or a 5km return walk on the Dunes Trail. Refreshments will be available to purchase.

Registration is advisable. Registration details are available on www.motutrails.co.nz.

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