Surprise progress: Jacks Point to Frankton bike trail

Queenstown Trails Trust (QTT) is actively considering its ability to step in and deliver a crucial section of the Southern Corridor Active Transport Route, following a successful funding application to Central Lakes Trust for $313,459.

While this project was originally designated as an NZTA initiative, QTT is investigating potential solutions to help bridge the implementation gap.

The Trust has secured easement agreements with landowners north of Parkridge development and is now assessing feasibility and costs to deliver a trail along Peninsula Hill base, with a crossing of Peninsula Road connecting to the existing trail network at Kawarau Falls Bridge.

“After careful evaluation of alternative options, the board believes this route presents the most feasible solution in terms of timing, cost, and engineering complexity,” said Mark Williams, QTT Chair. “This aligns with NZTA’s original assessments for the ‘A7’ link within the Whakatipu Active Transport Network.”

Queenstown Trails CEO Mark Williams

The project’s southern connections will be delivered by various developers as part of their existing consent requirements, ultimately linking through to Hanley’s Farm and Jacks Point.

Initial cost estimates for the project stand at approximately $800,000. QTT is exploring multiple funding sources and evaluating the need for a community fundraising campaign before finalising any delivery commitments.

“The successful Central Lakes Trust funding application provides an important foundation,” said Williams. “However, while we understand the urgent need for this active transport link to serve southern corridor communities, we must ensure we have sufficient resources in place to deliver a quality trail with certainty and without delays.”

QTT remains committed to balancing community needs with responsible project management and will provide further updates as funding arrangements progress

Queenstown Trails Trust is the charitable organisation responsible for planning and developing more than 200km of trails throughout the Whakatipu Basin. From commuter routes to single track, flow trails to backcountry loops, our network links communities, enables adventure, and provides positive social, conservation, and economic benefits to the region.