Long-closed section of Coppermine Trail reopening
14/04/2023 10:44am
The pipeline section of the Coppermine Trail between the Maitai Dam and Smith’s Ford will reopen Saturday 15 April.
This section of the trail has been closed on and off for several years due to slips, forestry harvesting, and, most recently, the 2022 August severe weather.
The most recent work carried out on the trail held up extremely well during the weather event, which means we are able to reopen with confidence. Ongoing monitoring will still continue following high rainfall events but will not require a standard closure period as we have had in place in the past.
The track was reopened following the installation of a 2.8 tonne recreational bridge by Wenham Contracting. The bridge was airlifted in with a Blackhawk helicopter and installed next to the repaired Maitai Raw Water pipeline. This bridge allows the entire track to open.
Over 5000 riders used the Coppermine Trail last year. A 42km loop from Nelson city, it’s considered one of New Zealand’s Great Rides.
Please note, there is still a risk of ongoing rock fall at the original slip site. Trail users are advised not to stop at this section of the trail. Signage is in place.