- Hon Louise Upston
- Hon Shane Jones
Locals and visitors will benefit from improved access in central Kaikōura, with the Government providing a grant of up to $500,000 from the Regional Infrastructure Fund for new facilities, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Tourism Minister Louise Upston say.
Kaikōura District Council will contribute $250,000 towards the $750,000 project, which will improve links between the West End, town centre, visitor facilities and the wider walking and cycling network, including the Whale Trail.
The project comprise a new pedestrian and cycle bridge across Lyell Creek and an extension of the West End car park
"Kaikōura is a tourism success story, and we need to make sure its infrastructure keeps pace. Better access around the town centre will improve the experience for visitors while making it easier for locals to get where they need to go," Ms Upston says.
"Improving parking and walking and cycling links will make it easier to get around town and help local businesses make the most of the visitors Kaikōura attracts."
The car park extension is expected to add around 60 spaces, alongside a new access road, footpath and recreational green space. The pedestrian and cycle bridge across Lyell Creek will provide a more direct link between the West End, town centre and wider walking and cycling network.
"This is exactly the sort of targeted regional infrastructure the Regional Infrastructure Fund is designed to support. It meets a practical local need and will make Kaikōura a better-connected place to live, visit and do business," Mr Jones says.
The project will now progress through detailed design, costing, consenting and procurement before construction can begin.
