Cycleway through Tararuas explored

BY WALT DICKSON - WAIRARAPA NEWS

A long-awaited alternative route to the west coast of the North Island could finally become a reality. But it won't be available to motorists.

The Horowhenua District Council is hoping to develop a cycleway over the Tararua Ranges from Shannon to Eketahuna. Part of the Government's national cycleway, it would provide the first link between Horowhenua and Wairarapa. The council has applied for Tourism Ministry funding for a feasibility study for the 40-kilometre cycleway.

Plans for a link between Horowhenua and Wairarapa date back more than 100 years, when a Shannon to Eketahuna road was first suggested. However, it has always been considered to be cost prohibitive.

As recently as three years ago the idea was again revisited when a feasibility study was undertaken by the Horowhenua District Council. But the estimated cost of more than $68 million meant it was unaffordable.

Council spokesperson David Clapperton says a suggestion was then put forward to use the same route but rather than having an 8-metre-wide road to have a 2.5m- wide-path for a cycleway instead.

"We looked at it with disdain at first but when we really thought about it we thought it was a really neat idea and in terms of what the Prime Minister and the Tourism Ministry are trying to achieve with the national cycleway it was just a natural link," he said.

"The national cycleway is all about finding new adventure opportunities and we believe crossing the Tararuas would be an exciting ride."

As well as providing some stunning vistas the cycleway would also boost economic development in the two small communities.

The proposed route has a working title of the "Missing Link" as it enables a safe offroad cycle connection opening up options both sides of the lower North Island for cycle travellers.

Mr Clapperton says the route would showcase the stunning natural environment of the Tararua Ranges and connect the "Natural Coast" hinterland. It also allows the distinct cultural heritage and pioneering spirit of the people that have occupied and developed this place to be visited and articulated through existing and proposed new facilities, he says.

The proposed route utilises quiet local country roads and an access road from Shannon to the high point of the route (570 metres), then requires a new trail of about 24km to link from the high point down to Eketahuna.