This would most likely be a Bike & Hike Charitable Trust, Far North District Council and community-driven project.
This route could also potentially be used by commuters and residents looking to incorporate daily exercise into a healthy and enjoyable transport experience. It would encourage dispersal west, extending the current cycling experience beyond Kawakawa and Opua. Connector rides are possible from Kerikeri to Okaihau on the Pou Herenga Tai trail, allowing for an extended circuit ride. Kerikeri is also a key visitor touchpoint via the Bay of Islands airport that is located at the edge of town.
The grade 2-3 trail, which is already used by Te Araroa walkers, would run between the Waitangi Mountain Bike Park and Kerikeri township. It would complement the Pou Herenga Tai Cycle Trail, allowing for increased length of experience and opportunity to explore the popular and culturally historic destinations of Kerikeri, Waitangi, Pahia and Russell in the Bay of Islands.
The Our Kerikeri Community Charitable Trust supports this trail in line with the vision and goals of the wider Kerikeri community. Based on community input, the Trust specifically supports initiatives that improve the wellbeing of the residents, environment, and economy by encouraging and promoting active lifestyles, reducing carbon emissions, and increasing economic development of our region. The Trust believes the Waitangi to Kerikeri walking and cycling link is critical to the above.
Status: Aspirational
Map
The map below shows the existing route used by Te Araroa walkers and local cyclists (prior to forestry harvesting commencing several years ago). It is indicative and does not necessarily represent a final route.
Possible future upgrade?
As part of the Waitangi to Kerikeri project, stage 2 could be the upgrade of the existing track between Opua and Paihia/Waitangi. Walkers range from those looking to enjoy a short (2-hour) coastal experience, right through to the Te Araroa Trail hikers, for whom this is only part of their 3,000 km journey to Bluff. The trail is currently unsuitable for cyclists and would be challenging to upgrade into a shared path.
