The Wai-iti River after flooding in the Tasman region in June 2025. A damaged cycle bridge for the Great Taste Trail, can be seen in the middle of the photo. Photo: Samantha Gee / RNZ
The government has announced a $1.6 million funding boost to repair and reopen Tasman's Great Taste Cycle Trail, which was badly damaged in the recent flooding and storms.
The 200-kilometre trail suffered more than $2m of damage caused by flooding and slips during June and July, with two sections still closed.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said the funding came from the New Zealand Cycle Trail Fund, which is supported with revenue from the International Conservation and Visitor Levy and would allow the trail to be fully open in time for summer.
"Reopening the trail will be a real win for the region, which has faced a tough winter. It's not just about tourism, it's about reconnecting communities and giving locals and visitors alike a chance to enjoy the outdoors and explore everything Nelson-Tasman has to offer."
The funding will go towards repairing damaged sections of the trail, replacing infrastructure and creating alternative routes where riverbank paths were no longer possible.
"While more work is needed to reopen the section between Wakefield and Belgrove, getting most of the trail back up and running for summer will be a big boost for local businesses, including bike hire and tour operators, cafes and accommodation providers along the route."
Louise Upston. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
The government has also allocated $50,000 for domestic tourism marketing, to boost local businesses.
Almost 70 percent of tourism and hospitality businesses in Tasman have reported lost revenue through cancellations and a drop in visitors after back to back winter floods.
Upston said domestic tourism will be an important part of the region's recovery.
"While there are a few localised areas which are still recovering from the weather events, the majority of the region is up and running, ready to welcome visitors over the spring and summer period."
The tourism funding comes from International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy.
The government also allocated another $300,000 in funding to support clean-up work through Enhanced Taskforce Green.
As Minister for Social Development and Employment, Upston said the Enhanced Taskforce Green programme was activated in July and enabled MSD to employ local job seekers to assist farmers and growers in the recovery from the events.
"Additional funding of $300,000, on top of the original $500,000, will enable local job seekers to continue the clean-up and return to those properties that need more support. Extending the programme until December 2025 will support these job seekers with the cost of living and give them work experience and the opportunity to transition to seasonal horticulture work without returning to benefit."
Since starting the programme, 60 properties had registered with MSD in need of support for severe or major property damage, with up to three days support provided for each property.
"Landowners, farmers and growers are praising the incredible work that the crews have been doing from clearing fence lines to removing silt from paddocks. Their commitment to supporting the community has been warmly received.
"This is one of several supports across government contributing towards the district's economic recovery and resilience after a natural disaster, while also supporting local job seekers gain skills and work experience."
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