“Ka pū te ruha, ka hao te rangatahi”
The Rotorua district is rich in recreational spaces, including the 5,600 hectare Whakarewarewa Forest. In addition to the Forest network, there are a number of trails across the district managed by the Department of Conservation (DoC). Also within the district is Te Ara Ahi, the 48km cycle trail developed as part of Nga Haerenga (NZ Cycle Trails).
The walking and horse riding trails in the Forest have for many years been maintained by Rotorua Lakes Council (RLC). In May 2016, the responsibility for the maintenance and development of the mountain bike tracks was taken over by the newly-founded Rotorua Trails Trust.
The aim of the Trust is to develop, manage and advocate for a network of the world’s best trails across the Rotorua district. As well as extending and enhancing existing trails for mountain biking, we will look to develop further trails that are suitable for walkers, trampers, runners, cyclists and horse-riders. To do this, we will work with iwi/hapū and other landowners, RLC, Bay of Plenty Regional Council, DoC and other government agencies and recreational and environmental groups.
The Trust is looking to develop a strategy that identifies the trails that the Rotorua community would like to see in the district. We will be holding a workshop to pull together an ‘ideas list’, as the starting point for the development of a list of priority projects. The feasibility of individual projects will be determined through consultation with appropriate stakeholders.
Please make the time to participate in the workshop:
- RSVPs to: Niki Carling
- 07 351 8171
- Niki.Carling@rotorualc.nz
