Kawarau Gorge Trail Nears Major Milestone

Southern Lakes Trails now expects the new trail to open towards the end of summer 2026 - around the end of Q1 - a timeframe that balances public excitement with the Trust's unwavering commitment to safety and quality.

The scale and ambition of the project reflect a transformational opportunity for the district. The KGT will serve not only as a major recreation asset but also as one of the most important regional infrastructure investments of the decade, enhancing connectivity, unlocking economic benefit and contributing to New Zealand's position as a premier global cycling destination.

Southern Lakes Trails Chair Aaron Halstead says the engineering achievements to date reveal the extraordinary work taking place deep in the gorge. He notes that the team is continually amazed by the innovation and dedication of the crew, who are meeting challenges head on by building bridges across a major river without easy access, helicoptering diggers into location, building bluff bridges capable of carrying machinery and creating a trail around one of the gnarliest highway bluffs in the region.

Behind every metre of trail lies a story of ingenuity. The team is constructing stacked stone abutments in the style of the region's early settlers and shaping the trail to sit naturally within the terrain. Ecological enhancement is a cornerstone of the project, with native species protected and incorporated into the final design. Halstead says that they are following the path of the early settlers, preserving and enhancing the ecology and working with the terrain to build a trail that will last for generations. The project is about connecting people with nature and history in a way that is both authentic and world class.

Economic Opportunity on a National Scale

Cycle tourism is one of the strongest drivers of New Zealand's regional economy. Trails around the country currently generate $1.2 billion annually and are projected to reach $2 billion within a few years. Internationally, the global cycle tourism market is forecast to achieve US$234 billion by 2030, highlighting the immense potential for regions with high quality multi-day trail systems.

The Lake Dunstan Trail offers a compelling benchmark. Initially forecast for 7,000 riders per year, it attracted more than 80,000 in its first year. Early modelling suggests the Kawarau Gorge Trail could exceed these numbers due to its dramatic landscapes, backcountry appeal and proximity to Queenstown.

Southern Lakes Trails Chief Executive Janeen Wood says the project represents a generational investment. She says the team can't wait to deliver this world class trail to locals, visitors and the wider biking community, and that the Kawarau Gorge Trail is a giant leap towards a unified regional trail network.

Safety at the Forefront

While excitement builds, the Trust remains clear: this is a backcountry trail in complex terrain. It will not be a simple ‘walk in the park’. With few exit points, users will need to be prepared for a remote experience. The only way out will be to return the way they came, continue forward, or in emergencies, be evacuated by helicopter.

To reinforce safe use, the Trust is developing an Approved Operator network that will promote safety, share essential trail information and help encourage responsible decision-making among riders and walkers. Safety barriers and signage will also be installed as part of the next major build stage.

Three new suspension bridges - 108m, 82m and 70m long - will be constructed early in the new year. Their sequencing is designed to discourage premature access into partially completed areas.

A Community Asset Built for the Future

The KGT represents more than a recreational upgrade. It is a milestone in building a district-wide multi-day trail network that will enhance wellbeing, create new commercial opportunities and provide a legacy asset for the region.

To support long-term stewardship, Southern Lakes Trails is expanding its user-supported model, including donations, partnerships, club membership and the newly introduced Track Pack supporter programme. Track Pack members directly contribute to maintenance, receive exclusive benefits and join a growing community dedicated to protecting the region's trails.

Wood says that for everyday trail users - riders, runners and walkers - this is their chance to pay it forward. She encourages people to join the Track Pack, support trail upkeep and help build a network that future generations will be proud of.

As the project approaches its final stages, the sense of anticipation is unmistakable. The Kawarau Gorge Trail is set to reshape the region's recreation landscape, provide a major economic boost and strengthen Central Otago's position on the world cycling stage. The finish line is coming into view - and the journey will have been worth every step.