Planning to move strategically

Accessible and safe walking and riding options throughout Hurunui will be a priority for future planning of recreational and transport options.

Hurunui District Council’s (HDC) Walking and Cycling Strategy is being reviewed, using a lens that stretches forward to 2050.

The Strategy is being broadened to consider a range of active transport options, including mobility scooters, wheelchairs, skateboards, human-powered bikes, e-bikes, horses, as well as walking and running. It is proposed to be renamed as the Walking and Riding Strategy to reflect all these activities.

HDC’s Principal Planner Andrew Mactier said being able to walk and ride around the District safely is a key focus of the Strategy, and the next few weeks offer a great chance to gather feedback from key stakeholders. These groups include community board, community committees, Hurunui Trails Trust, St James Trails Trust, Hanmer Springs Track Network Group, schools and a number of other representative groups.

Public engagement will begin in November. This will include community drop-in sessions, online feedback forms, and a range of platforms for walking and riding enthusiasts to use to learn more about the Strategy, and let Council know what they think about it.

Mactier said the long-term vision and direction of this Strategy will greatly assist Council in encouraging and promoting walking and riding throughout Hurunui District.

“We’d love to see more people choosing to walk and ride around Hurunui, more often, a place where we share to live, work and play,” said Mactier.