Mountains to Sea – Te Hangāruru Cycle Trail
The Mountains to Sea – Te Hangāruru Cycle Trail is a transformative project that showcases the rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant communities of the Ruapehu district. A collaborative initiative between Te Korowai o Wainuiārua, the Ruapehu District Council, and other key stakeholders, this trail bridges the connection between the Waimarino/National Park township and Horopito, providing the infamous “missing link” in the Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono Great Ride.
Key Features of the Trail
Spanning 29.4 kilometers, the trail combines cultural storytelling with breathtaking scenery. The first phase includes 11.5 kilometers of trail from Horopito to Pōkākā, featuring boardwalks, 17 bridges, and four suspension bridges, all set amidst stunning subalpine podocarp forests. At its heart is Aotearoa’s longest suspension bridge, stretching 200 meters across the Makatote River, linking the trail to the proposed Pōkākā Eco-Sanctuary. Construction of this section began with a karakia and blessing by Uenuku iwi in October 2023, with completion expected by March 2024.
A Vision for Sustainable Tourism and Development
The trail is designed not only to attract over 35,000 visitors annually but also to foster local development. It creates training and employment opportunities for rangatahi, equipping them as kaitiaki (guardians) to maintain and expand the trail for future generations. This initiative aligns with the vision of sustainable tourism, bringing economic resilience to the Ruapehu district while ensuring minimal disruption to native flora and fauna.
Uenuku’s Leadership and Cultural Significance
Uenuku has played a central role in this project, leading with a vision that reflects their deep connection to the land and the principles of kaitiakitanga. The name Te Hangāruru, gifted by Uenuku, signifies abundance and harmony with nature, drawing on ancestral stories and the resources of the rohe. Uenuku Chair Aiden Gilbert highlighted the trail’s significance, particularly its connection to the Pōkākā Eco-Sanctuary, which is set to be Aotearoa’s first iwi-led, predator-proof eco-sanctuary. The sanctuary will also include a visitor center, café, wildlife tours, and a center of excellence for mātauranga Māori-inspired education.
Key Partnerships Driving Success
The trail’s success is built on strong partnerships with entities like the Ruapehu District Council, the Kānoa Regional Economic Development Unit, and Mountains to Sea NZ. Additional support from government funds has enabled the trail to become part of New Zealand’s 23 Great Rides, connecting iconic sites like the Ohakune Old Coach Road and the Mangapurua Bridge to Nowhere. These partnerships emphasize both ecological restoration and cultural preservation, making the trail a symbol of resilience and collaboration.
Government Involvement
The sanctuary has been championed by government leaders, including the Minister of Conservation and the Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations. The $1.92 million investment through the Jobs for Nature programme has been pivotal in progressing the sanctuary’s goals, with additional Crown support expected as the project evolves.
Future Vision
The Pōkākā Eco-Sanctuary is more than a conservation project; it’s a pathway to cultural and environmental renewal. Uenuku iwi envisions a sanctuary that fosters thriving populations of taonga species, strengthens iwi connections to the whenua, and serves as a beacon of sustainability.
As the sanctuary grows, it aims to integrate into the region’s tourism offerings, providing jobs, educational opportunities, and a deeper appreciation of the interconnectedness of people and the environment. The Pōkākā Eco-Sanctuary stands as a legacy of resilience, uniting past, present, and future in the shared responsibility of caring for Papatūānuku.
