Hauraki Rail Trail Update

Posted by Gold FM - source Hauraki District Council Web site on 01/06/2011

Construction of the Hauraki Rail Trail began on Tuesday 31 May in the Karangahake Gorge.

The construction opening of Stage One of the trail took place outside the Karangahake Hall. Kaumatua Tewi Nicholls blessed both the site and the workers who will be completing clearing and construction. Kaumatua Nichols and Hauraki District Mayor John Tregida turned the first sod to celebrate the beginning of construction. Mr Tregida also acknowledged the support for the trail from many groups in the community, as well as the patience of farmers and iwi who have been working with the Councils involved to identify and mitigate issues caused by the trail.

The Hauraki Rail Trail showcases some of the best scenery New Zealand has to offer – and the Karangahake Gorge offers not only spectacular scenery, but is rich in pioneering history. Hauraki District Council chose the area between Karangahake and Waikino to begin construction, after agreeing with the Department of Conservation to upgrade the tracks in time for the Rugby World Cup. Partnering with DoC to work on the old rail route through the Karangahake Gorge will ensure that the tracks are not only suitable for walkers, but meet the standard required for the national cycleway. Clearing work may also begin on other sections of the trail over the coming weeks.

 Hauraki District Council also recently signed the lease with KiwiRail, giving them the head lease for the rail corridor that will become the rail trail. The project team are continuing to work with affected farmers to ensure that any impact on their farming operations is kept to a minimum.