Arthurs Point to Queenstown shared path

The Arthurs Point to Queenstown route was identified as one of eight priority trails for the Whakatipu Active Travel Network: an integrated network of trails for walking and cycling that connects to public transport, providing a genuine alternative to getting around by car.

The route recently received funding through the Transport Choices package.  This is part of the Waka Kotahi Climate Emergency Response Fund (CERF) programme, which aims to demonstrate what’s possible for communities nationwide by quickly providing people with healthier, more affordable, and safer transport choices that are good for us, and for the environment.

The routes starts at McChesney Bridge and follows Gorge Road towards Queenstown, traveling through rural and urban areas.  It links in to the Matakauri wetland trail then recommences along Robins Road, adjacent to the Recreation Ground, finishing at the intersection of Memorial and Camp Street.  

The work includes: 

• upgrading the existing rural trail to an asphalt and chipseal surface

• drainage and surfacing upgrades to the Matakauri wetlands trail (note the trail will remain unsealed in this location)

• sealing the road shoulder adjacent to the Matakauri wetland trail

• creating a wider shared path along Robins Road, between the Recreation Ground and the intersection of Memorial and Camp Street. 

• retaining walls, safe crossing points and associated line marking.

We've provided the detailed design drawings below: 

Gorge Road Cycleway (McChesney Bridge to Wetlands)

Matakauri Wetlands

• Construction work will start in September and will be finished January 2024 (completely reopened for the Christmas holidays).

• Work hours will be Monday-Friday, 7.30am-6.00pm, with some work on Saturdays if required.

• During the work hours, signage and barriers will be installed at either end of the track works with stop/go operating for pedestrians/cyclists.

• Spotters onsite will then escort pedestrians/cyclists through the worksite during working hours.

• Stop/go will only apply to areas that are being worked on at the time.

• The Matakauri Wetlands Trail will fully re-open end of each working day, on Sundays, public holidays, and through Christmas and New Years.

Recreation Ground Carpark Closure

The Recreation Ground Carpark will close on Monday 4 September until the end of January.  This will allow for large retaining walls to be constructed to support a wide shared pathway along part of Robins Road. We are aiming to partially reopen the carpark towards the end of October and over Christmas.

Alternative parking options include Boundary Street and Lakeview.   

Tree removals

Approximately 14 trees have been removed along a section of Robins Road to allow for the footpath to be widened and a retaining wall to be constructed. There is a number of shrubs in this area that will be retained or trimmed where the construction footprint allows.   

28 trees will be replanted in their place.  The location and species of these replacement trees is to be confirmed.   

Footpath closures and pedestrian detours

There is likely to be footpath closures along Robins Road. Detours will be clearly signposted.

If you live or work along the route and have any concerns or questions about the construction, please get in touch with our customer services team on 03 441 0499 or email services@qldc.govt.nz