'Trail lovers' campaign for Queenstown Trails

Queenstown Trails is launching a new look fundraising campaign inviting locals – and visitors – to become official Trail Lovers.

Replacing the organisation’s Friends of the Trust appeal, the new campaign aims to connect with, and garner support from, all trail users.

“Whether walkers, runners or bikers, we’re asking everyone that loves the trails to join us, and help support our mission to further grow and enhance our incredible trail network,” says Queenstown Trails CEO Mark ‘Willy’ Williams.

“This is a great opportunity for the community to show the trails some love. We have big plans and with every dollar donated going directly back into trail expansion and improvement, the more funds raised the more we can do.”

Mr Williams says continuing to broaden the type of trails being developed, offering more access to the backcountry and trails close to home for everyone are just a few of the trust’s priorities for the next few years.

The backcountry Coronet Loop, a collaboration with QMBTC to develop Hot Rod and Upper Hot Rod and the revamp of Bush Creek are just a few recent Queenstown Trails projects made possible by community donations.

Projects currently underway include the Arthurs Point to Arrowtown trail, Arthurs Point to Tucker Beach and Sunshine Bay to 7Mile. Plans to extend the 12 mile trail, the proposed Kimiakau Bridge over the Shotover and trail infrastructure projects, such as shelter, water stops and toilets, are also on the agenda.

“The Trail Lovers concept is a great fit with our values of Kaitiakitanga, guardianship and protection of the environment, and we hope people will connect with this and make their love for the trails official.”

The Queenstown Trails network consists of more than 180km of commuter trails, single track, flow trails and back country loops; linking communities, enabling experiences and providing positive social, conservation and economic benefits to the region.'