An organisation tasked with maintaining the local Ngā Haerenga Great Rides has introduced two new donation devices to encourage riders to support maintenance of the trails.
The Nelson Tasman Cycle Trails Trust says the devices, installed at Māpua Boat Ramp and Tahuna Beach Holiday Park, are so people biking on the local Great Taste Trail can make a donation as a ‘thank you’ for using the 240km of cycle trail in the region.
Trust chair Gillian Wratt says funding is “tight”, and although a team of trustees and volunteers help the contracted trail management team provide quality riding experiences, with 400,000 riders counted on the GTT last year, maintenance is necessary.
“The trust is incredibly grateful to the financial support from both councils, central government, businesses, and others to construct and maintain the trails, but funding is tight.
“Some sections are 15 years old, and with high use the trail wears out.”
She says the trust has always encouraged people to make a donation towards the trails and the installation of two credit card devices will make it easier.
“We chose to install these at the Tahuna Beach Camp Holiday Park and Māpua Ferry, and initial feedback is very positive,” Gillian says. “Riders recognise the value of having two Great Rides in our region; the 200km Great Taste Trail - one of the longest cycle-trail loop rides in New Zealand - and the 40km Coppermine Trail - one of the longest single-track descents in New Zealand. So keep your eyes open for the donation devices and help us keep the trails in tiptop condition.”
“And we have a Givealitte page for those who like to donate that way, or if people want to donate towards a specific project we invite them to get in touch. We are also keen to hear from anyone who benefits from our trails and is interested in inviting us to set up a device at their business”
Bernie Whitaker, co-owner of The Gentle Cycling Company, is pleased that the devices have been introduced.
“We operate our business alongside the Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park and are thrilled to have these wonderful trail treasures on our back door. Over summer we will see well in excess of 2,500 visitors camping – many of whom will ride on the Great Taste and Coppermine Trails.
“Visitors love the trails but it’s always a bit tricky to ask people to pay more when they have already paid for their trip or bike hire. So this way it will be easier for our clients to make a donation.”
According to a report commissioned by the trust, the Great Taste Trail is estimated to contribute around $34m a year directly to the local economy. This money goes to businesses, employees and service industries and the credit card devices are a way that local users and visitors can help make the region more vibrant.
