Key Takeaways
- The first 1.5km section of the Dunedin Tunnels Trail project has opened to the public
- The trail runs through the historic Chain Hills Tunnel and regenerating native bush
- The project has received $1.8 million in funding from the Dunedin City Council and a $2 million injection from the government
- The trail is expected to be completed by mid-2027 and will link Dunedin and Mosgiel through two historic railway tunnels
- The completed trail will be part of the Shared Path Cycleway network across the region and the country
Introduction to the Dunedin Tunnels Trail Project
The Dunedin Tunnels Trail project has been 20 years in the making, and the first section of the trail has finally opened to the public just in time for Christmas. The 1.5km section of the trail runs from Gladstone Rd North along a disused rail corridor, through regenerating native bush and the historic Chain Hills Tunnel, before stopping a few hundred metres beyond the tunnel. This milestone marks a significant achievement for the Tunnels Trail Trust, which has been working tirelessly to bring the project to life.
Project Funding and Progress
The first stage of the project began in June using $1.8 million of funding from the Dunedin City Council. The project also received a $2 million injection from the government last month, which will cover stages two and three of the project. This funding will enable the trail to be extended through Fairfield, Abbotsford, and Green Island. The Tunnels Trail Trust chairman, Brent Irving, expressed his delight at reaching this milestone, stating that it’s a joy to see people experiencing the first section of the trail and getting a better idea of the project’s potential.
The Vision for the Trail
The ultimate goal of the project is to provide commuters with a scenic route between the city and the Taieri. The trail is expected to be a family-friendly short walk or ride and a great new tourism asset for tepoti Dunedin. Dunedin Mayor Sophie Barker said that the council is delighted that the first stage of the trail is complete for people to enjoy, and that the trip through the tunnel will be a highlight for young and old. The next two stages of the trail are expected to be completed by the middle of 2027, and once completed, the trail will traverse the 15km between Dunedin and Mosgiel, linking the centres through two historic railway tunnels — the Chain Hills Tunnel and the Caversham Tunnel.
Connection to the Wider Cycle Network
The completed trail will be part of the Shared Path Cycleway network across the region and the country. It will link to Otago’s wider network of Great Rides, including the Otago Central Rail Trail, Clutha Gold Trail, Lake Dunstan Trail, Roxburgh Gorge Trail, and Queenstown Trails. Mr. Irving stated that Dunedin will become part of the hugely successful Shared Path Cycleway network, which will provide a scenic and safe route for cyclists and walkers to enjoy. The trail is expected to be a major tourist attraction, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and historic heritage.
Conclusion and Future Plans
The opening of the first section of the Dunedin Tunnels Trail project marks a significant milestone in the development of the trail. The project has been many years in the making, and the trust is thrilled to see people experiencing the first section of the trail. With the funding in place and the next two stages of the project expected to be completed by mid-2027, the trail is on track to become a reality. The completed trail will provide a scenic and safe route for commuters and tourists alike, and will be a great asset for the region. As the project progresses, it will be exciting to see the trail come to life and become a popular destination for cyclists and walkers.