The Otago cycle trail network is set to benefit from a $13.5 million Government cash injection
Tourism Minister Kelvin Davis says the funding will help create an estimated 329 fulltime jobs.
Mr Davis said it will extend Ngā Haerenga (the New Zealand Cycle Trail), connecting the four current Great Rides.
Mr Davis predicted riders would double to 174,000 by 2032, increasing the length of users staying in the area by 33 per cent.
The total cost of the project is $26.4 million, with the Government contribution matched by local funding.
"The new Central Otago Queenstown Trail Network will help draw visitors off the beaten track and encourage people to stay longer and spend more in communities beyond the main tourist spots," he said.
An additional $281,313 will be put into the Hawke’s Bay Trails and Waikato River Trails for emergency safety work and damage repair.
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