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Queenstown Trails Trust
About Us
Welcome to the Queenstown Trail, New Zealand’s most popular Great Ride – Nga Haerenga.
Come and experience the full grandeur of Queenstown and journey along 120kms of trails alongside awe-inspiring alpine vistas, crystal clear lakes, stunning river gorges and hidden ruins. Combine your active adventure with world-class accommodation, food and wine for an experience you will savour forever. Come for an hour, a day or stay for four – bring your friends and family and discover a whole new side to Queenstown.
The Queenstown Trail now allows public access to unspoilt private land, traversing two mighty suspension bridges, crossing three iconic rivers and circumnavigating two lakes… all set in dramatic Lord of the Rings landscapes. Accessible all year round and suitable for all abilities with trails ranging from easy to intermediate; the Queenstown Trail can be enjoyed by everyone.
Queenstown Trails Trust History
The Queenstown Trail is the realisation of a ten year vision that began in 2002, combined with the tenacity, passion and patience of many local individuals and organisations.
OUR VISION: TO CREATE A WORLD CLASS TRAIL NETWORK FOR WALKING AND CYCLING
In 2009, an idea emerged from the 2009 Government’s Job Summit, to create to build a network of cycle trails that would open up new ways for Kiwis and international visitors to see the country – and also generate economic, social and environmental benefits for communities – ‘Nga Haerenga – The New Zealand Cycle Trail’ was born.
The Trust owes a huge vote of thanks to so many: the early pioneers who had the vision in 2002; the local businesses and individuals who have contributed their time, money and ideas over the years; generous landowners who have agreed to share their beautiful land with the rest of the world; local and central government and the Department of Conservation, who have all played a major part in the planning, development and safety of these magnificent trails.
Other partnerships that have enabled this extensive trail network are: New Zealand Transport Agency, Historic Places Trust, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, Private and Public Landowners, Community Trust of Southland, Central Lakes Trust and other Trusts, Bequests and financial sponsors and patrons.