The completion of what is set to become one of New Zealand’s iconic cycling journeys is being celebrated by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.
Te Awa – The Great New Zealand River Ride is now complete between Cambridge and Hamilton, the final piece in the 65km shared trail which runs from Karāpiro in the south to Ngāruawāhia in the north.
“This path is the jewel in the cycling crown (helmet) for the Waikato,” says Waka Kotahi Director of Regional Relationships David Speirs.
“It’ll be great for those who want to get around our region by bike, linking in with other bike paths, but it’s also a destination and a must-do ride in itself.”
The section between Cambridge and Hamilton, which includes the State Highway 21 Airport Road underpass, was built in four stages by Waka Kotahi, Waipā District Council, Waikato District Council and Hamilton City Council. It was jointly funded by Waka Kotahi and the Government’s COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund, managed by Kaanoa, the Regional Economic Development and Investment Unit.
The final stage, linking Riverglade Drive in Tamahere through to the Hamilton Gardens, was officially blessed and opened this morning (9 December), with a public celebration of the path’s completion planned for March 2023.
“Congratulations to Te Awa who have put in the mahi for many years to bring this dream to fruition,” says Mr Speirs.
