At our meeting on 10 June 2026, members heard a compelling presentation from Grant Sidaway, Chair of the Waiohine Cycle Bridge Committee, about an ambitious infrastructure project that could transform the way people move through the South Wairarapa.

The proposed bridge would span the Waiohine River, connecting existing trail networks and forming part of a longer off-road route from Wellington to Masterton. At 169 metres, it would be the second-longest suspension bridge of its kind in New Zealand, designed to last 100 years and built for cyclists and walkers only.

Grant pointed to the success of Te Ara Tupua between Petone and Wellington, which has already attracted 142,000 users, as evidence that good trail infrastructure brings people. Nationally, trail visitors spend an average of $964 per trip, and the health and social benefits add further weight to the case.

The project has strong backing. Local hapu, Greater Wellington Regional Council, Carterton District Council, and neighbouring landowners have all been engaged and are supportive. Engineering design is complete, and the project is described as shovel-ready. The remaining hurdle is funding: $190,000 has already been spent on development, and the build cost is estimated at between $2.3 million and $3 million.

The committee is exploring philanthropic funding with naming rights at the top tier, followed by small and medium business sponsorship, and a community Givealittle campaign. If you know of any individuals or organisations who might want to be part of this, the team welcomes a conversation; personal connections are the most effective way to open doors.