Hurunui Trails Trust Board

The Hurunui Trails Trust (HTT) is a charitable trust that was formed in 2009 and has developed and grown various cycling trails, including the Waipara Valley Vineyard Trail, the Hurunui Heartland Cycle Ride, and part of the Amberley Area Cycle Trail.

Over the past several years the HTT has refocused and developed into a governance group that provides guidance and support to community groups undertaking trail projects. Ongoing advocacy, support and advice is provided by the HTT for groups and organisations such as:

• Hanmer Springs Track Network Group

• Hanmer Springs Community Board

• Cheviot Trails working group

• NZTA

• HDC Road Safety Committee

• Waipara Wine Trail Vineyards

• Amberley Ward Committee

• Department of Conservation

• New Zealand Cycle Trails

The most recent development has been the additional responsibility (from June 2020) of the overall management of the St James Cycle Trail – one of the 22 Great Rides. This support includes advice on how to approach, fund, build, maintain and importantly promote walking and cycling trails. Several local walking and cycling groups seek support from the HTT, both within the Hurunui, and significantly from other regions as well.

Following the development of the HTT into a governance group, the HTT was endorsed by the Hurunui District Council as the champion for walking and cycling in the Hurunui District, and the Council recognised the importance of having a champion who can support community groups to achieve their goals.