04-07-2025
Aim to have new 5km river track ready by Christmas
The new 5km 'true right' track to be completed by Christmas this year will run from the Lake Hawea dam to Camphill Rd. PHOTO: SUPPLIED
The Upper Clutha Tracks Trust is moving ahead with plans to complete a brand-new 5km track along the Hāwea River, aiming to have it ready by Christmas this year.
The new "true right" track will run from the Lake Hāwea dam to Camphill Rd on Department of Conservation land, with approval from the Queenstown Lakes District Council. Designed as a peaceful getaway for walkers and cyclists, it promises a quieter alternative to busy commuter routes and will be accessible to adaptive bikes and strollers.
Although construction has yet to begin, trust chairman David Howard is optimistic the project will be finished on schedule. The budgeted cost is $154,000, and while there is still a funding shortfall, founding member John Wellington said the trust would proceed cautiously while seeking additional support.
To date, significant contributions have come from Central Lakes Trust ($38,346), Otago Community Trust ($30,000), New Zealand Bike Trails ($1500) and the Hāwea Community Association ($3000). The trust recently received a further $2500 from the final Wheels to Wānaka event and has launched a Givealittle page to attract more supporters.
As part of the project, small clearings will be created along offshoots of the track where users can pause to enjoy the scenery, dip their feet in the river, or picnic.
"What better way to enjoy the Upper Clutha's summer than with a cold leg of chicken in one hand and a plastic cup of elderflower cordial in the other?" Mr Howard said.
Last month, trustees approved calls for tenders to tackle challenging sections near the "wave", widen parts of the trail and build a boardwalk across a wetland. Environmental surveys have ensured the track will not disturb local lizard populations, and discussions are ongoing with Contact Energy regarding a safe crossing at the dam.
Meanwhile, the trust is holding off on upgrading the existing Wānaka to Hāwea track due to funding uncertainties. A recent grant application to the Lotteries Board was unsuccessful, prompting the trust to rethink its approach to this major maintenance project.
— APL
