Exciting news today with the Auckland City Council's support for a proposed NZ Cycle Trail project for Waiheke.
Press Statement "Waiheke plan for PM's Cycle Trail " A major boost for cycling on Waiheke is underway with the launch today by Fullers and Cycle Action Waiheke of a 'Great Cycle Ride' trail to be submitted for inclusion in PM John Key's NZ Cycle Trail.
The project was presented to Auckland City's Transport Committee by Fullers' CEO, Doug Hudson, Waiheke resident Michelle Boag and Cycle Action spokesperson, Barbara Cuthbert.
' The cycle trail is a perfect fit for the island' said Barbara Cuthbert ' It will bring more cyclists to stay overnight, the right scale of investment and jobs to fit with the easy pace and engaging style of the island. I am hugely grateful to Nikki Kaye, MP for Auckland Central, in helping with our project, and to Fullers. It makes sense for Fullers to be our partner, as the company has just received the 2009 national 'cycle friendly business' award.
Tantilising photos of the trail, linking beaches; secluded bays; vineyards; bush lined roads; village cafes; festivals; events and panoramic headlands were shown to the Transport Committee, along with slides depicting the laid back life style on the island.
The project was greeted with acclaim and support by the Committee, and will be submitted for the 18 December deadline for Phase 2 funding requests to be assessed by the Ministry of Tourism's 'NZ Cycle Trail' team.
Today's Transport Committee also confirmed funding for signs for the 'Auckland Central Great Ride' project proposed by Cycle Action Auckland and NextBikes. Barbara Cuthbert predicts that the two cycling projects will put Auckland on the map for cyclists from around the country and overseas.
'They will boost the profile of cycling as a first step to putting us up there with 'cycle friendly' Melbourne.' "
A plan of the Waiheke Cycle Trail concept is available on request from Barb Cuthbert - Cycle Action Auckland.