Far North Coast to Coast Cycleway Feasibility Study
- Frequently Asked Questions about the Far North Coast to Coast Cycleway Feasibility Study
- Public Information Presentation (940Kb PDF)
- 2nd Public Information Presentation (1.9Mb PDF)
Introduction
The Ministry of Tourism has confirmed funding for a feasibility study on the concept of a coast-to-coast cycleway in the Far North. The aim of this study is to investigate the viability of developing a cycleway to link the Hokianga and the Bay of Islands.
Background
Part of this proposed cycleway (Okaihau – Kaikohe) has been identified as one of the seven ‘Early Start’ projects in the government's national cycleway programme. However a construction start is dependent on the outcome of the feasibility study on the wider coast-to-coast cycleway proposal. If the study confirms viability, the 12 kilometre Okaihau-Kaikohe link is likely to be one of the first to be constructed with funding assistance under the government programme.
The cycleway concept came from the National Employment Summit and was identified as a "near term and high priority" project. The concept is being championed by Prime Minister, John Key.
The main objectives of the National Cycleway concept are:
- To create jobs through design, construction and maintenance of the cycle network;
- To create a high quality tourism asset which will enhance New Zealand’s competitiveness as a tourism destination and provide employment and economic development opportunities for regional economies;
- To maximise the range of complimentary benefits that the cycle network provides to a wide range of New Zealanders. This includes events, recreational, health and other benefits.
Further background information can be found at www.tourism.govt.nz/Our-Work/New-Zealand-Cycleway-Project/New-Zealand-Cycleway-Quick-Start-Tracks/.
Objectives
- To produce a viable feasibility study to develop a ‘coast to coast’ cycleway
- To produce all required documentation ready for consenting and implementation
- To run an open and transparent process
- To clearly communicate with interested/affected stakeholders
- To stay within budget
The Study
The feasibility study will need to provide detail on the following topics:
- Executive summary
- Overview of the proposal
- Identifying target market
- Meeting needs of target market
- Construction and maintenance
- Governance, business model and financial requirements
- Short, medium and long term employment opportunities
- Economic impacts (short and long term), including costs and benefits
- Proposed implementation plan
The work will require a collaborate approach across a number of government and non-government organisations and will be lead by the Far North District Council. Part of the work will be to develop and implement a consultation plan, which will include public meetings. The first of these will be public information evenings, to be held on Tuesday 27 October at the Okaihau Community Hall, Settlers Way, Okaihau and on Thursday 29 October at the Tuna Cafe, Moerewa. Both meetings will commence at 5.30pm.
The engineering aspect is a key component to developing the study. Haigh Workman, a local engineering and planning firm has been identified to complete this work.
Timeframes
The project commenced early October and will need to be submitted to central government no later than 18 December 2009.
Public Meeting Dates
- Tuesday 17 November 5.30 pm - Kawakawa, St John Building, Gillies St, Kawakawa
- Wednesday 18 November 5.30 pm - Kaikohe Memorial Hall
Outcomes
Should the feasibility study prove there is a viable business case, the short and long term benefits should be significant - socially, culturally and economically. The route would wind through a number of small rural communities, where employment and growth opportunities are limited. Benefits would include but are not limited to:
- Increase in short to long term employment opportunities
- Increase in training opportunities, with a focus on young people
- Positive social and economic impacts (including encouraging community connectedness)
- Growth in business opportunities
- Added value for tourism
- Protection of heritage
Construction and maintenance of the cycleway, along with the economic impacts of increased visitor numbers, would all help ensure that the area reaps the rewards of a well planned and well delivered product.
Notice of on-site investigation of railway corridor (Ontrack land)
A team will be walking the railway corridor between Okaihau and Kawakawa during the two weeks commencing 2 and 9 November. The purpose is to investigate the track as a potential cycleway.
For further information, please contact:
- Project Engineer, John McLaren, Haigh Workman
Phone 09 407 8327 or
email JohnMcLaren@haighworks.co.nz - Project Manager, Tania McInnes
phone 021 344 870 or
email cycleway@fndc.govt.nz
Contact
For information relating to the Far North Coast to Coast Cycleway project, please contact:
- Tania McInnes
Project Manager
Far North District Council
Mobile 021 344 870
Email cycleway@fndc.govt.nz
Page created/updated: 20 November 2009 at 5:15 pm
