All go for $1 4m wineries cycleway

Work is set to begin on the Wineries Ride section of the 187km three-stage Hawke's Bay Trails cycling path following confirmation of the $1.4 million funding.

The two other cycle rides which make up the trail, the Water Ride and the Landscapes Ride, are fully funded and under construction.

The Hawke's Bay Regional Council have agreed to fund $590,260 towards the 36km wine-themed section - adding to a $191,865 funding package from the New Zealand Cycle Trail project. The balance has been secured through Nga Haerenga and several other sources, including the Hastings District and Napier City Councils.

The total cost of all three sections is estimated at $5.3 million.

The wineries ride will stretch along the Ngaruroro River between the Expressway and Fernhill, past Roy's Hill Reserve, the Gimblett Gravels and Bridge Pa, then back through Hastings where it will link into connections to Hastings' iWays network and the Water Ride section.

New Zealand Cycle Trail programme manager John Dunn said the Wineries Ride would form an important part of the broader three-section package which makes up the Hawke's Bay Trails.

"The Wineries Ride will offer an enjoyable riding experience through some spectacular scenery including a wide range of well-known wineries, farmlands, olive groves and orchards," he said.

"It will improve safety for cyclists who are already cycling in the area and provide a powerful launch pad for local businesses promoting a range of activities."

Hawke's Bay Regional Council chairman Fenton Wilson has strongly advocated the trails.

"The regional council's open spaces include popular walking and cycling pathways, horse trails, country parks and public wetlands, so we are excited to show our support for a third cycle ride for locals and visitors to enjoy and connect via these open spaces to our many other attractions."

Mr Wilson said the economic benefits of existing trails were still emerging, but cycle tour businesses, wineries, restaurants and accommodation providers had been vocal about the increase in business they had experienced over the past 12 months.

Tukituki MP Craig Foss said he was delighted the trails were funded and under way.

"Our Hawke's Bay cycle trail dots are now joined. From commercial gains for our tourism industry through to recreation for locals. This is yet another reason to visit and live in the Bay."