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The latest section of the Kawatiri Coastal Trail on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island has been opened to the public.

Set to eventually traverse 55 kilometres of spectacular West Coast scenery from Westport, around Cape Foulwind to the old gold rush mining town and adventure tourism destination of Charleston, the Pawaha Section from Westport to Carters Beach was opened last weekend, marked by a ribbon cutting and community event.

The first of nine sections of the trail to be finished after the project secured $9.36 million funding from the New Zealand Government’s Provincial Development Unit (PDU).

Charleston-Westport Coastal Trail Trust Chairperson Richard Niederer says the opening is a milestone worth celebrating, commenting “we have been working towards this for five years and to see the first stage successfully completed is a source of real satisfaction for the local community

"Locals are proud to be able to show visitors our area’s unique geology, flora and fauna, rich Maori and European history, significant archaeological sites and inspiring seascapes.

"We have built it to be a Grade 2 family friendly cycle trail, so it is suitable for most ages, fitness and abilities.

"This a historic area and those using the trail will be following in the footsteps of ancient Maori and the 1860’s gold miners. I am confident that when it is completed, it will be one of New Zealand’s finest day rides."

The remaining eight sections of the trail will be built over the next 18 months, with final completion expected by June 2022.

With the PDU monies fully funding the construction, PDU Principal Regional Advisor (South Island) Warren Gilbertson stated “locals have been working on developing this project for five years now and thanks to West Coast PDU advisor Penny Bicknell’s efforts, the PDU was able to provide the funding to bring their vision to reality.

"Not only has this project created over 30 construction jobs, it has also provided an asset which will boost local tourism and provide more, longer term employment."

Images: Carters Beach (top, courtesy of TOP 10 Holiday Parks/Holiday Parks Association of New Zealand) and the Trail will connect Westport with the adventure tourism destination of Charleston (pictured below, courtesy of Kawatiri Coastal Trail).

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