Hello,

Aparima Riverton Trails Trust (ARTT) is a community-led charitable trust based in Riverton / Aparima. The Trust was formally established in late 2024, following more than a year of work by an informal local group committed to creating a network of off-road walking and cycling trails in the region.

There are currently very few off-road trails in Southland, especially when compared to the trail networks of Otago and other parts of Aotearoa. As a result, local residents are missing out on the health, wellbeing and recreation benefits that trails can offer; and the region is also missing a major economic opportunity.

Nationally, trails are estimated to generate $1.3 billion per year (Gabites, 2025), with over 1 million cyclists and another 1 million walkers using them annually.

ARTT’s long-term vision is to create a connected trail network linking Bluff to Tūātapere and on to Te Anau — a world-class coastal route that celebrates the beauty, stories and community of Murihiku. The goal is not just to build trails, but to create an experience that reflects the best of trail design: off-road, scenic, safe, accessible, and connected to the land and communities it passes through.

ARTT aspires to meet the design standards associated with New Zealand’s Great Rides. For now, the Trust is focused on laying strong foundations and building momentum.