The Government has announced up to $12 million in funding for a proposed bridge over State Highway 1 and the main trunk railway in Picton, along with associated trail work designed to complete the final link between the town and the Whale Trail.
The bridge and trail work will create a safer and more direct connection between Picton, where thousands of ferry passengers arrive each year, and the 170km Whale Trail cycling and walking network stretching to Kaikōura.
Kaikōura MP Stuart Smith welcomes the announcement, saying the project will deliver significant benefits for the region.
"This is a proud day for the Kaikōura electorate.
"It will be a transformative project, bringing more visitors and encouraging longer stays and repeat visits. That's a win for everyone."
Transport and Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop says the climb out of Picton on SH1 has been recognised as one of the more difficult and hazardous sections for cyclists.
"The climb out of Picton on SH1 for cyclists has long been acknowledged as a tricky section.
"They must navigate other ferry traffic which is often heavy, particularly during the holiday periods."
The proposed bridge and associated trail work will allow cyclists and walkers to avoid the narrow, high-speed stretch of highway while providing a seamless connection to the wider trail network.
Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says completing the final link into Picton will enhance one of New Zealand's premier cycling and walking attractions and help attract more visitors to the region.
"The Whale Trail, already a popular trail with visitors and locals alike, has the potential to attract more visitors to the region, encourage longer stays, and showcase more of what Marlborough and Kaikōura have to offer," she says.
Funding for the project will be released in stages. Up to $1 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund is allocated to NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi for bridge investigations, design and planning work.
A further $4.4 million from the Infrastructure Reference Group Programme will help deliver the final section of the shared walking and cycling trail into Picton.
An additional $6.6 million is earmarked for potential bridge construction, subject to further design work and future Government decisions.
