New Zealand Invests NZ$1.213 Million in Great Rides Cycling Network
New Zealand has committed NZ$1.213 million to its Great Rides network, putting cycling tourism and regional visitor spending in focus. The funding will be allocated across three specific trails:
- NZ$975,000 for the Mahinapua Boardwalks Upgrade on the West Coast Wilderness Trail
- NZ$135,000 for the Waipapa Regrade on the Waikato River Trail
- NZ$103,011 for the Maitai Connection on Nelson’s Coppermine Trail
Local partners will contribute more than NZ$718,000,bringingthecombinedinvestmentaboveNZ$1.93 million. The Great Rides network recorded 2.58 million trips in the year to June 2025, with visitor expenditure attributable to the trails estimated at NZ$1.28 billion. International visitors represented only 13% of trail users but generated 28% of expenditure, with average spending per person more than twice that of domestic visitors.
Trade angle: Cycling routes can support multi-night regional stays, guided experiences, equipment services, and accommodation partnerships beyond major cities. Operators should check the funding allocation and the specific trails benefiting before presenting the investment as a nationwide upgrade.
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