A new management agreement between the Rotorua Trails Trust (RTT) and the Department of Conservation (DOC) will help provide quality tracks for the community.
Various tracks on land administered by the department will now be managed by RTT, which will be maintained to DOC's track service standards. Affected tracks include Te tihi o Ruru on Rainbow Mountain and various tracks in the Whakarewarewa State Forest Park.
The Trails Trust is a not-for profit organisation which contributes to the development and maintenance of trails in the wider Rotorua region.
"This is an exciting time for Rotorua. There is huge potential to extend the trail network and build on the success achieved so far. The agreement provides the framework for the Trails Trust and DOC to move forward," said RTT chairman Gregg Brown.
Ranger Caraline Abbott added: "In terms of recreational facilities, DOC administers over 35 tracks, six conservation campsites, 12 toilets and more than 650 other assets such as signage, platforms and fences. We have a limited amount of resources to work with so to have this support from the trust is undoubtedly a win for recreation."