Work first started on the 13km Wharehuanui Trail, which links Arrowtown to Arthurs Point, seven years ago. It follows the foothills of Coronet Peak and traces Mill Creek from its source, before connecting to the existing Countryside Trail, at Millbrook Resort.
Queenstown Trails Trust boss Mark "Willy" Williams said they were indebted to the landowners who have worked with them, recognising the benefit of the trail for the community.
Mr Williams identified a gap in the network and the benefits of trails for community, economic benefit, and conservation initiatives.
"The big focus of the Wharehuanui Trail is creating a seamless recreational link between the valley trails and the wider back country mountainbike trail network on and around Coronet Peak and Mahu Whenua," he said.
The additional benefit of connecting communities with active transport opportunities was not lost on him.
"Trails provide the perfect means for locals and visitors to experience the Wakatipu Basin without a reliance on vehicles, reducing emissions and congestion, with the obvious health and wellbeing benefits of daily exercise."
The trail also provides a chance to experience Mana Tahuna’s conservation efforts, and the extensive Mill Creek/Lake Hayes restoration project, which is under way and ongoing.
He said the conservation outcomes aided by the trail were another enormous benefit.
"We are incredibly proud that the trails provide access for trapping, planting, control of invasive species and waterway restoration, allowing people to experience our environment and gain a sense of guardianship/kaitiakitanga."
He also paid tribute to funders, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment and Central Lakes Trust, the Trail Lovers supporter base and particularly the Kuperus family, who funded the "Kuperus Crossing" bridge, near the foot of the "Don O’Connell Climb".
Built in partnership with Queenstown council’s parks and reserves team, trail maintenance will be managed by the council after the project is officially complete. The trail will open today — an official opening function will be held later this year.
