We Have Done the Talking; Now Let's Do the Walking...and Cycling.

It has been a long time coming but now it is finally here. The grand opening of the Wansbeck Street Extension and Harbourside Walking and Cycling Track will occur this Sunday, 23 May 2010.

Mayor Alex Familton will be opening the Wansbeck Street extension followed by Prime Minister Hon. John Key opening the Walking and Cycling track.

Describing the festivities, Harbour Sub Committee Chairman Cr Gary Kircher said “we will be holding an entire day of festivities and celebrations. Starting at 11am with free rides on the steam train, it will be a family and community orientated event.” Adding that “we want to see as many people along to celebrate this special occasion”.

Waitaki District Council Active Transport Coordinator Helen Algar, is really pleased with how the day is progressing. Active transport will feature heavily during the day with a best dressed bike and rider competition, and the inaugural ride and walk of the track. Mrs Algar commented that “We are hoping to make this the biggest bike ride ever with as many colourful, decorated bikes as possible it’s a fantastic opportunity to get active, be part of history and have fun at the same time.”

Other features of the day will include the grand opening of the Oamaru Cycle Works by the ‘Queen of Victorian Oamaru’, Stunt performances from the New Zealand Penny Farthing Champion, and a family concert.

Construction of the track began in January of this year. During the construction process the Council worked closely with the Oamaru Whitestone Civic Trust, the New Zealand Historic Places Trust, who describes the area as “the only surviving authentic Victorian Harbour”, and the Department of Conservation to ensure the protection of Wildlife in the area.

Landscaping and special heritage lighting have been designed to fit comfortably in the environment, achieving a balance of functionality and heritage. The civil engineering design has also ensured that the infrastructure is functional but also aesthetically authentic. This includes the use of recycled bluestone cobbles into surface drainage to reflect the authentic historic concept.

Similarly, on the cycleway path north of the rail bridge a section of limestone foundation, most likely from old railway workshops, was discovered. The track alignment in this location was then moved so that the blocks became an interesting feature alongside it and information boards depicting its history are intended to be displayed here.

Harbour Projects Coordinator Rex Stringer is pleased with how the project has progressed adding that “One of the great things about building the track and road is being able to use local resources and involve the local community who have made a substantial contribution in time and effort. It gives a sense of ownership, the community has been waiting twenty five years. All people want to see the work continue, both in maintenance and future development.”

“Because of government subsidies the value we have gained from he project has by far outweighed the cost to ratepayers” said Cr Kircher. The project has received $528,000 from the New Zealand Transport Agency equivalent to 67 percent of the total project.

“This is the first step in the rejuvenation of the Harbour area and the connection of the historic precinct with the harbour and Penguin Colony. We see this as a very valuable project turning a heritage area into a positive place for people to socialise and enjoy themselves.” said Mayor Alex Familton.

The Harbourside track is also pegged to become the final 1.3 kilometres of the Alps 2
Ocean Cycle Trail when that project goes ahead.

Councillors, Key Staff and Community Members will be available for photo’s and questions, tomorrow, Wednesday May 19, 9am at the corner of Harbour and Wansbeck Street.