Ninety-eight-year-old Laurie Weller breaks ground for the first stage of work on the Tūroa to Ohakune trail assisted by Pae Whakahaumaru manager Dave Kereti. Photo supplied by Ruapehu District Council
Ohakune-based iwi Ngāti Rangi has celebrated the turning of the first sod to mark the start of construction on their 21-kilometre Te Ara Mangawhero eco-tourism hiking/cycling trail connecting Tūroa and Ohakune on Mount Ruapehu.
When completed, Te Ara Mangawhero will form part of the “Mountains to Sea Trail”, one of the 22 so-called Great Rides across New Zealand.
The honour of breaking ground for the much-awaited trail went to 98-year-old Laurie Weller, who worked on the historic Bennett and Punch forestry tramline, which will form the base for much of Te Ara Mangawhero.
In his speech, Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton acknowledged the pioneering work of people like Laurie and the many people and organisations who had worked tirelessly over many years to get the project off the ground.
“Since the original idea for a hiking/cycling trail between Tūroa and Ohakune it has been a long, and at times difficult journey, for everyone who believed in what Te Ara Mangawhero could deliver for Ngāti Rangi and the local community,” Weston said.
“That we are gathered to celebrate the project getting under way is a testament to the hard mahi of a lot of people who have wanted to see Te Ara Mangawhero succeed.
“The council has been happy to support Ngāti Rangi in undertaking of this project, which represents a significant milestone for their aspirations as tangata tiaki of this area.
“This trail not only promises to be a magnificent outdoor adventure, but will provide a wide range of economic, environmental, social, and cultural benefits and legacy for the future.”
The trail was expected to boost local economic sustainability, promote recreational opportunities, sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship. It would educate people on the area’s biodiversity and ecological importance, fostering local pride.
“The council is excited to support Ngāti Rangi as they undertake the building of Te Ara Mangawhero, a part of their wider vision for the future,” Weston said.
