Coastal Connection project co-ordinator Emily Cooper (centre) with some of the walkers, cyclists and dignitaries who celebrated the opening of the first stage (Waitati and Mopanui Rd) of the Coastal Connection trail yesterday. Now there are more than 500 members and the group has just officially opened the first section of the Coastal Connection trail. Coastal Connection project co-ordinator Emily Cooper was delighted the first stage was now complete and it had given the team "the confidence" to continue. However, it was difficult to say when the whole length of the Coastal Connection trail would be completed, she said. Ultimately, the shared-use path would be part of a much longer trail between Oamaru and Waihola, which would link the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail and the Clutha Gold Cycle Trail.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 13, 2026 20:00 UTC