Community Initiatives On The Hauraki Rail Trail

Many wonderful local community initiatives were underway earlier in Autumn. We look forward to gearing back up the good work that was being done, and seeing other projects come to fruition.

Local farmers have partnered with the Hauraki Rail Trail to remove some of the large tracts of privet that line the section south of Paeroa. Our neighbours are keen to work with us to provide better experiences for everyone, with one local farmer looking to provide a full rest area with fruit trees for hungry cyclists.

The Rotary shelter project is gaining traction, with Rotary Clubs from Te Aroha, Matamata, Thames, Morrinsville and Paeroa joining forces to design and build shelters on the trail network. Fundraising is on target with the first one to be installed shortly. Let us know where you would like to see these along the network.

Paeroa Lions Club have gifted donation boxes, with the first one north of Paeroa raising over $100.00 in the first fortnight. We’re thrilled to see visitors and locals alike contributing to the trail. Every cent counts, with donations going towards trail planting and improvements.

It's been a labour of love, and finally the new seating was installed on the Trail prior to lockdown. This beautiful rail inspired bench has been kindly donated by the Skelly family, and is situated 100m into the trail from Lawrence Road, Waihi. The seat weighs in at a whopping 750 kilograms and was built by Mount Maunganui company Big Woodies. When the Hauraki Rail Trail does re-open, for now we ask riders to just admire and not use the bench, as the Covid-19 virus can remain on surfaces for three days.

If you would like to look at how you can support other great initiatives like this on the Hauraki Rail Trail in your area, contact Diane on diane@haurakirailtrail.co.nz