We are thrilled with the announcement of $500,000 to Westland District Council for the West Coast Wilderness Trail from the new $1billion regional growth fund. This is a real milestone for the trail. It supports five projects and means the trail can reach what is called "completion". From a rider perspective the main additional work is taking the trail off the road through an outstanding extension at Mahinapua Creek incorporating this historic Mahinapua Bridge. A big thumbs up and thank you to everyone who has helped get to this point.

The Trail is open. At present there is a closure and detour on the section of the trail in the area of Mahinapua Creek. This section is OPEN for Labour Weekend and will close again on Tuesday to continue gravel conveyance over the bridge. This section is scheduled to be open again at the end of this month. Below is a video showing the great work being undertaken and the stunning vista being opened up.

Cyclists are urged to take care when negotiating the section of cycle trail from southern end of Taramakau Bridge to the new boardwalk at the entry to the Greymouth Kumara Tram. Currently there is intensive construction work occurring on the roadway in this section and the cycleway has been diverted to a narrow path on the seaward side of the highway. The speed restriction for vehicles in the area is 30kph while the present earthworks are proceeding. It is envisaged that the present construction activity in the cycleway area will be completed within the next month.

This inaugural event will give you the opportunity to see the West Coast beauty.

Four events, lots of categories:

Ross to Greymouth - 131km

Hokitika to Greymouth - 100km

Cowboy Paradise to Greymouth - 64km

Kumara to Greymouth - 26km

For more info, and to enter visit: www.ridethewilderness.co.nz

If you are parking at Kumara to ride the trail please park at the start of this leg of the trail, the Kumara Sportsground. The sportsground has car parking, toilets, running water, shelter, waste disposal facilities and a picnic table. Please don't park opposite the school. This is presenting issues for locals and the school, especially as no facilities or designated parking space exists. For anyone looking at having drinks, meals and accommodation at the hotel and riding the trail from there, you are most welcome to use the hotel car park. Many thanks.

Due to an unforeseen change in circumstances Hurunui Jacks will not be open every day for food/drinks. If you are looking at calling in please phone or email first to check (03 7558683 or maureen@hurunuijacks.co.nz). All accommodation is operating as usual.

The West Coast Wilderness Trail is open. This includes the stretch through Cowboy Paradise. The attraction and facilities at Cowboy Paradise itself are currently closed for business due to upgrade work being undertaken. This is expected to be completed by the end of September with the likelihood that accommodation may become available for the beginning of October. Enjoy riding the trail!