The overwhelming public response in the inaugural Dunedin Town Belt Traverse has prompted a call for a potential permanent trail through the area.
Yesterday's traverse, which began at the Southern Cemetery and finished at the Woodhaugh Gardens, was organised by the Dunedin Amenities Society as part of its 125th anniversary.
Committee member Paul Pope said the society had planned for up to 350 people to walk the 7.9km traverse, but members were stunned when 530 people took part.
''We were overwhelmed with the turnout, and absolutely thrilled with so many people taking part.''
He was particularly pleased with the number of families and young people, which ''gave a bit of life into the Town Belt''.
''So many people said they never knew all these things were there, and that was a thrill for me.''
Due to the response, the society may contemplate holding a similar event in a few years, he said.
''We hope the traverse will act as a catalyst for permanent trail through the Town Belt in the future.
''It is so close to the city and it such a beautiful area, there is so much birdsong it could be that little thing that visitors to the city and even locals would do.
Mr Pope said the society, which has around 70 paid-up members, had played a ''big part in the conservation landscape of the city, and what we have seen today may entice other people to join us''.
The Town Belt was an important reserve for the city and it was hoped residents would take a more active interest, including tackling council about is management and maintenance, he said.
