Online survey seeks more feedback from users of Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail

The Ruapehu council says the survey data is an invaluable resource that helps to inform trail management and service decisions. Photo / File

Tourism operators are being asked to encourage people riding the Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail this summer to complete a short survey on their experience.

Ruapehu District Council economic development manager Warren Furner said the survey data was invaluable in helping to inform trail management and service decisions for anyone with a stake in the trail's long-term success.

"Great Rides aims to have a minimum of 100 completed surveys per year on each of the 22 Great Ride cycle trails throughout NZ."

"Currently Mountains to Sea isn't getting to the minimum 100 completed surveys and we would like to see this target exceeded every year," Furner said.

The survey aims to capture people's feelings and insights on all aspects of the trail experience covering everything from supporting services, information, accommodation, hospitality, transfers, etc. and the trail ride itself.

"As the official trail manager for the Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail, Ruapehu Council is keen to move to a stage where we can gain and share these results in terms of visitor origin, satisfaction and rider behavior so that trails and operators can offer the best experience possible."

Mr. Furner said the council was producing flyers and other material on the survey and its benefits that it would distribute to local operators and others providing services to trail riders.

"As it is so much in everyone's interest to have good feedback information we expect that operators and others will be very happy to proactively encourage people to complete the survey.

"Ruapehu will also be working with our partner Whanganui District Council to capture riders at the other end.

"Any local operators or service providers who would like more information can contact their local council office on 06 385 8364 or 07 895 8188."

The survey can be found at www.getsmartglobal.com/nzcycletrails