Waikirikiri Alpine to Sea Trail and Te Waihora Lakeside Cycle Trails Feasibility Study

Project location
Selwyn District

Client
Selwyn District Council

Services provided by Frame Group
Feasibility Studies and Options Assessment

Partners

• Roam Consulting – Trail Development Specialist

• Martin Jenkins – Cost Benefit Analysis

Frame Group led a major feasibility study for two proposed cycle trails in the Selwyn District: the Waikirikiri Alpine to Sea Trail and the Te Waihora Lakeside Cycle Trail, covering more than 200 km of potential new routes.

The Alpine to Sea Trail would become a fully accredited Great Ride, connecting the alpine spine of Arthur’s Pass to the shores of Te Waihora (Lake Ellesmere). The Lakeside Cycle Trail, while not intended as a Great Ride, would provide a valuable loop around the lake’s edge for local and visitor use.

The study explored route options, technical viability, land tenure, construction costs, environmental impact and community benefit. It also assessed trail experience, infrastructure needs and long-term governance models.

Together, the trails are seen as a key missing link in New Zealand’s cycle tourism network. Frame Group’s study provided the strategic foundation and next-step recommendations to guide future investment and delivery.