Trails are generally unsealed paths primarily used for recreation or touring and are often shared with people travelling by bicycle.

Trails will rarely be a component of an urban pedestrian network, but there may be some cases where they are appropriate (eg Tasman’s Great Taste Trail, Hutt River Trail).

Whenever a trail is considered, the limitations it has on both the pedestrians and cyclists who will want to use it, compared to a sealed shared path, should be taken into consideration.

Relevant guides include:

The New Zealand Cycle Trail Design Guide(external link)

Department of Conservation track construction guidelines(external link)

Trails commonly follow historic routes, so may encounter historic and cultural heritage. There may be opportunities to recognise interesting historic features along the route. The Considering historic heritage in walking and cycling projects information sheet provides guidance on heritage considerations in walking and cycling projects.

Considering historic heritage in walking and cycling projects