AA Traveller welcomes the government’s increased commitment to Nga Haerenga, the New Zealand Cycle Trail with an additional $25 million in funding over the next four years.

The funding boost represents more than half of a $45 million tourism package provided in the government’s Budget this year to support the sector’s contribution to economic and job growth in regions across New Zealand.

AA Traveller Tourism Publishing General Manager Moira Penman says the cycle trails network is continuing to grow in popularity and is a proven attraction in its own right.

“Our own experience with the cycle trails network has demonstrated they’ve become a hugely popular with Kiwis and international visitors alike,” Ms Penman says.

“When we launched the first edition of the New Zealand Cycle Trail Guide in conjunction with the New Zealand Cycle Trail organisation, we had a good idea there would be a lot of interest. What we didn’t anticipate was exactly how popular the guides they actually were.

“In less than two years, we’re about to publish a third edition of the guide to meet growing demand for the information and maps on about 30 routes, including the current Great Rides, throughout the country.”

Ms Penman says every year more Kiwis are getting mobile on bikes.

“Nga Haerenga, he New Zealand Cycle Trail provides a huge range of options for cyclists – both new to the game and experienced – to get out and explore significant parts of our country that are often unseen by most.”

Ms Penman says additional funding for the cycle trail network will further enhance what is rapidly becoming a jewel in New Zealand’s tourism crown.