A statement by the Dunedin Tracks Network Trust said work to build a trail connecting Waikouaiti to Port Chalmers began yesterday.
Volunteers started building a section of the trail between Waitati and Orokonui Ecosanctuary.
Co-ordinator Emily Cooper said she was excited construction of the trail was under way and felt grateful for the support from the community.
"Our dream is becoming a reality, thanks to generous landowners and people giving their time for free.
"This community is amazing."
The trail’s construction was a part of a larger project — the Coastal Communities Cycle Connection.
The project was focused on connecting Dunedin’s north coast communities of Waikouaiti, Karitane, Warrington and Waitati to the city and one another.
Waitati landowners Graeme and Marie Bennett had even allowed the trail to pass through their property, creating a route from Doctor’s Point Rd to Mopanui Rd, near the Orokonui Ecosanctuary.
Local resident Andy Parsons, along with "master track builder" Hamish Seaton, volunteered time to operate a digger donated by Cargill Contracting.
Ms Cooper said this section of the trail would be "something special".
"The quality of the track is only surpassed by the views."
Dunedin Tracks Network Trust chairman Paul Coffey said it was a "momentous occasion".
"This is the first ground broken in our vision to build a network of world-class trails across Dunedin."
The trail was expected to be opened to the public next year and would provide "sweeping views" over Blueskin Bay, allowing cyclists and walkers to ascend 270m in elevation, off-road from Doctor’s Point Rd to Mopanui Rd.
For the most part, the trail would be grade2 (easy), with some grade3 (intermediate) parts.
Blueskin Nurseries will donate plants for the built section of the Waitati trail.
"Other donations have started to roll in and we are very grateful to some generous locals along with the Blueskin A&P Society and the Waikouaiti Coast Community Board," Ms Cooper said.
She thanked the Dunedin City Council for its support, as well as local consultant James Taylor, from Beca, who had prepared the consent application "pro bono".
The trust was planning a future off-road trail from Blueskin Rd down to Port Chalmers, creating a commuter route to Dunedin for Blueskin Bay residents, while also giving access to the north coast for city residents and visitors.
Further north, the trust raised funds for the design of the Waikouaiti River rail bridge clip-on, which was under way.
