Progress on the last section of the Mountains to the Sea cycleway, covering a few kilometres north of Wanganui on SH4, has gathered pace with consultation about to start with some landowners.
The unfinished section is between the historic brick kiln a few hundred metres south of Kukuta Rd, along to Kaimatira Rd next to the former Benefields orchards.
Rowan McGregor, Wanganui District Council property manager, told the council's operations and reporting committee that some private property would be needed to extend the path and this would involve taking some land from three property owners in the area.
Mr McGregor said the council's property group flagged the development with the three property owners directly affected but consultation with those owners had not yet started.
"Draft agreements for easements are being prepared and will involve monetary compensation which is to be assessed by an independent valuer," he said.
The cycleway was promoted by Horizons Regional Council about five years ago, Mr McGregor said.
"They were looking for something that would provide a 'wow' factor, like the New Plymouth coastal walk and cycleway does."
Mayor Annette Main told the meeting that the section would take the cyclists from Upokongaro to Kowhai Park. Because it was the last leg of the Mountains to the Sea cycleway it would qualify for Government funding.
"It doesn't mean money from council budget other than staff time," Ms Main said.
"But this would finish the cycleway into the city and deliver economic benefits."
The trail begins at the Turoa skifield carpark on Mt Ruapehu, and currently passes through Ohakune, Horopito, Ruatiti, Mangapurua Landing, Pipiriki, Jerusalem and down the Whanganui River Rd to Upokongaro.