Years of planning, fundraising and determination are set to pay off for the Fiordland Trails Trust, with two major trail construction projects now out to tender.
For many years, the Trust has been working towards completing the Lake2Lake Trail between Te Anau and Manapouri as a fully off-road experience, while also progressing plans to extend the trail network north of Sinclair Road. Both projects have now taken a significant step forward.
With all consents secured, fundraising progressing positively, and key Department of Conservation approvals in place including a renewed Community Agreement for the trail network and a Wildlife Permit for leg 5 Lake2Lake, tenders have been released for two major contracts:
Lake2Lake Trail – Leg 5 (5.4km)
This final section will complete the Lake2Lake Trail, creating a continuous 30km off-road experience connecting Te Anau and Manapouri.
Te Anau to Te Anau Downs Trail – Leg 3 (8.8km)
Extending from Landing 2 to Boundary Creek at the Fiordland National Park boundary, this section will increase the completed northern trail network to 20km of off-road trail north of the Te Anau boat harbour.
Tenders for both contracts close on 24 July 2026.
Subject to contractor availability and favourable conditions, work on the final Lake2Lake section is expected to begin in November, with completion targeted for winter 2027.
The northern trail extension will be delivered in stages as funding allows, with the Trust aiming to complete at least one stage each year. Construction on the first stage is expected to begin before Christmas.
Once complete, the Fiordland trail network will offer 50km of spectacular off-road riding and walking opportunities – 30km south from Te Anau to Manapouri and 20km north towards Te Anau Downs. The expanded network will further support Te Anau’s reputation as a destination for bikers, offering outstanding recreational opportunities.
A 2023 economic assessment estimated the community benefit of the Lake2Lake Trail alone at $3.15 million. With a combined 50km of trail available, the Trust expects those benefits to grow significantly.
Fiordland Trails Trust spokesperson David Boniface says the Trust is delighted to see momentum returning to the construction programme following a period of frustrating delays.
“This is a major milestone for the Trust and for the wider Fiordland community. We are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received, both financially and through advocacy. It’s exciting to see years of work translating into tangible progress and to be delivering what will become one of New Zealand’s most outstanding off-road trail experiences in such a remarkable natural setting.”
The Trust’s fundraising campaign continues, and community support remains vital to bringing the full vision to life.
Anyone wishing to contribute to the project is encouraged to contact Trust Manager Clare Ngakai at admin@fiordlandtrails.nz.
Photo: Proof testing of a piling system for boardwalks to Leg 5 of the Lake2Lake Trail
