Cycle trails have been hailed as a major contributor to Otago's economy after a report showed they generated about $20million in revenue for the region. This made up the lion's share of total revenue of just over $20million for Otago trails, including the Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail, which starts in Canterbury. ''I think the Government investment in cycle trails, led by the Otago Central Rail Trail, is a great investment.'' She stressed the importance of continued investment and, like Ms Kennedy, said there was the opportunity to link cycle trails in the region. Mr Key said cycle trails had been ''very effective in attracting high-value visitors to our regions''.

Source: Otago Daily Times October 10, 2016 17:03 UTC