Dunedin Tracks and Trails

24/05/2026

Since the Coastal Connection trail opened in February, Orokonui Ecosanctuary's café has seen a remarkable surge in visitors, despite roadworks on Blueskin Road, demonstrating the tangible economic benefits and proof that great trail infrastructure is good for local businesses.

The numbers speak for themselves: The first month, the trail has seen an average of over 80 walkers and cyclists per day. Compare that to the 500 daily users on the harbour cycleway bridge, and it's clear; demand for pedestrian infrastructure is very real.
This is what trail investment does for a community.

Planning a visit to Orokonui Ecosanctuary? The Coastal Connection trail is unaffected by the closure, and visitors are welcome to park at Waitati and cycle in, avoiding the detour entirely. If travelling by car, access is via SH88 through Port Chalmers. The sanctuary is open Thursday to Monday. For questions during the road closure, contact [email protected].

Read the full story posted in the comments below.

09/05/2026

A fantastic day at Waitati as the work continues on the recently opened section of the Coastal Connection track. 500 trees planted by a great turn out of volunteers on top of the more than 2,000 trees that are already there! Thanks to Chris Baillie for organising the funding 💥

Trees help us reduce erosion to keep the track surface in great condition, and give local wildlife the habitat they need to thrive. Every tree planted is a long-term investment in the trail and the community around it. 🌿🚴

📷 Andy Parsons

26/04/2026

Great to see people getting out to explore the Coastal Connection! 🚵With stunning views over Blueskin Bay, it's a great showcase of what Dunedin's outdoors has to offer.

Maybe not today with the rain, but this is your sign to get it on the list for next weekend! 🌧️ ➡️ ☀️

07/04/2026

Did you spot this article by Rachel Elder, one of our trustees in the Otago Daily Times this weekend?

Better-connected bike trails and paths could make cycling to work or school a real option for more people, offering a meaningful way to reduce the cost of living.

03/04/2026

Would you believe these e-trike riders in Blenheim are in their 90s? 🙌 They've been clocking up 20km rides regularly since getting their e-trikes last year. Proof that there's no age limit on getting out and exploring our trails. Incredibly inspiring! 🚲⚡

P.S. the supplier in Christchurch has already sold out as they are very popular atm.

So kind, customers made this video and sent to me, I am thrilled Brian and Robin are enjoying life to the max, and My trikes are a part of their life. Thank ...

28/02/2026

The Coastal Connection - Stage One is now open for about 2 weeks, but we need your help to connecting the rest of our coastal communities from Waikouaiti to Port Chalmers with safe, beautiful trails for walking and cycling.

If you're able to contribute, every donation helps us move closer to completing the full trail. Donate here 👉https://www.dunedintracksandtrails.nz/donate

23/02/2026

We love seeing so many of you out on the Coastal Connection track between Waitati and Mopanui Rd, keep it up! 🎉🚲

But we need to have a word about dogs. Our four-legged friends aren't allowed on this track, and it's important to know why: the route crosses private farmland, and that access is a privilege we don't want to lose.

We love dogs (truly, we do. Look at that cute little face!), just not on the Coastal Connection track. Please check the signage and leave your furry friend at home for this one. 🐶

14/02/2026

The photos are in! 📸

Reliving all the best moments from Friday's official opening; the ribbon cutting, the muddy smiles, and the community spirit that made it all possible!

The smiles say it all. Thank you to everyone who made this milestone so special! 🎉🚴☔

The trail is now OPEN, check out the Dunedin Track and Trails website for more info.

14/02/2026

The Coastal Connection is now officially open!! 🎉Thanks for everyone coming along, with more than 100 of you biking or walking up in the pouring rain to celebrate this amazing piece of infrastructure. 🚲🚶

Special thanks goes out to Emily Cooper, the amazing project lead who made this all happen, with lots of support obviously. And thanks to to Graeme and Marie Bennett. They have given over 4 hectares of farmland to the public for this trail!! and lots more to thank. For the full speech by Emily, read it here in the Coastal Communities Cycle Connection Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1Dk4ErjRTk/

And as Mayor Sophie Barker, mentioned in her speech, walking and biking connections like these are so important to creative liveable and sustainable cities and to keep people active.

Happy riding! 😎🚲

The long and winding road has started, and it is headed this way. Six years ago, a group of locals formed a public Facebook group, all with the...

31/01/2026

Thanks for the great photo Mark Patterson MP! Great to get support from politicians including MP's and Mayor Sophie Barker. Our team were there to discuss the grand opening of the new section of the Coastal Connection towards Waitati (13 February).

And check out the new signage! 🪧

Pictured in photo (from left to right); Emily Cambridge (Dunedin Tracks and Trails), Mayor Sophie Barker, Emily Cooper (Dunedin Tracks and Trails) and Hon. Mark Patterson.