Home » Adventure Travel News » New Cycle Trails in New Zealand Ruapehu Region to Attract Tourists and Fuel Economic Growth with Stunning Views from Mountain to Sea
Published on
November 1, 2025
In a move set to enhance the tourism landscape of the Central North Island, two major cycle trails will soon be completed, drawing more visitors to the Ruapehu region. The announcement, made by Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston, confirms that the Government will fund the final stages of Te Ara Mangawhero and advance Te Hangāruru, both of which will be integrated into the broader Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono cycle journey. These two key routes are critical to completing the full 231 km trail, which will span from Mount Ruapehu to the Tasman Sea.
Enhancing the Ruapehu Region’s Economic Resilience
The completion of these two cycle trails is expected to significantly boost the local economy by attracting more tourists and encouraging longer stays in the region. The investment in these infrastructure projects will also provide local businesses with much-needed support, as increased visitor numbers drive demand for services, accommodation, food, and recreational activities. The Ruapehu region, known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor offerings, is poised to benefit from the long-term economic impact of these trails. The cycling routes will not only support tourism but will help position the region as a key destination for outdoor adventure tourism in New Zealand.
The full cycle journey, once complete, will be a powerful addition to the country’s growing list of world-class recreational trails. The entire 231 km journey, connecting Mount Ruapehu to the Tasman Sea, will offer an exceptional experience for cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. It will take riders through lush forests, scenic mountains, and picturesque rural areas, showcasing the Central North Island’s natural beauty.
A Collaborative Effort to Honor Culture and Heritage
The development of the cycle trails is being led by a partnership of several key organizations, including Ngā Waihua o Paerangi Trust, Te Korowai o Wainuiārua, and the Ngā Ara Tūhono Trust in collaboration with the Department of Conservation. This collaborative approach is central to the project’s success, as the groups work together to ensure the trails are not only functional for cyclists but also serve to highlight the cultural significance and deep connection that the region has with its people and land. Minister of Conservation Tama Potaka emphasized that the trails would strengthen local communities while fostering a deeper connection between visitors and the land. The trails will provide an immersive experience that celebrates Aotearoa New Zealand’s landscapes, bush, and stories, reinforcing the cultural ties that bind the land to its people.
The completion of the cycle trails is viewed as more than just an infrastructural project. It’s about creating a space where visitors can experience the history, identity, and significance of the Ruapehu region, while also ensuring that future generations can continue to connect with the natural environment. Through this initiative, the government and its partners aim to protect taiao (the environment), while also supporting the economic growth and resilience of the local communities.
Funding and Support for the Cycle Trails Project
The cycle trails will be funded with a combination of resources, including the International Visitor Levy ($7.7 million) and an additional $3.1 million from the Major Events and Tourism Package. This substantial funding allocation underscores the importance of the project to the local and national economy. The Government’s commitment to the project highlights its recognition of the long-term benefits that sustainable tourism can bring to regions like Ruapehu, which rely on both their natural beauty and the tourist industry to sustain local economies.
The cycle routes will be opened to the public as sections are completed, with the full project slated for completion in early 2027. This phased approach will allow visitors to experience portions of the trail before its official completion, with the hope that it will continue to build excitement and anticipation as the project progresses.
A Strategic Approach to Sustainable Tourism Growth
In a broader context, the completion of these trails ties directly into the Government’s Major Events and Tourism Package, which aims to stimulate visitor spending, create jobs, and bolster the tourism sector across New Zealand. According to Minister Louise Upston, the completion of these cycle trails is an important move for supporting local businesses and fostering economic growth in Ruapehu and other regions across the country. The initiative not only attracts more visitors but also encourages them to stay longer, thereby contributing to a sustained growth in tourism.
The Government sees the project as an essential step in ensuring that Ruapehu and surrounding areas develop long-term resilience in their tourism sectors. This sustainable growth will not only benefit the current generation but will help to build a robust economic foundation for future generations. The completion of the Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono cycle trail will be a flagship project that draws attention to the Central North Island’s untapped potential as a prime destination for adventure tourism.
Promoting Regional Tourism and Culture
The integration of Te Ara Mangawhero and Te Hangāruru into the Mountains to Sea cycle trail project will also increase the diversity of experiences available in the Ruapehu district. The region is already known for its outdoor recreation, with ski fields, national parks, and hiking trails. The addition of these cycle routes will make it even more attractive to tourists seeking a unique and adventurous experience in a stunning natural setting.
The Government’s commitment to enhancing the Ruapehu district through tourism infrastructure will not only benefit tourists but also empower local communities by creating jobs and supporting local businesses. By focusing on practical partnerships that honor the region’s culture and environment, the Ngā Ara Tūhono project is paving the way for a bright and sustainable future for the area.
Looking Forward: A New Era of Tourism in Ruapehu
With the completion of these two new cycle routes, the Ruapehu region is set to become a more prominent destination in New Zealand’s tourism landscape. These trails will enhance the existing tourism infrastructure while creating a vibrant new avenue for visitors to explore the area. The journey from Mount Ruapehu to the Tasman Sea will become one of the country’s premier cycle experiences, offering unparalleled access to the natural beauty and rich culture of the Central North Island.
The new cycle trails are a testament to the ongoing efforts of the New Zealand Government and its partners to create meaningful, sustainable tourism experiences that benefit both visitors and locals alike. The project will not only strengthen Ruapehu’s local economy but also provide an exciting new adventure for cyclists looking to explore the stunning landscapes of New Zealand’s Central North Island.
[Image Credit: doc.govt.nz]
