Kaikōura community leads the way, creating an iconic addition to The Whale Trail

L-R John Fissenden (Fissenden Brothers Ltd), Dennis Buurman (Encounter Foundation), Ian Bradshaw - (Encounter Foundation), Lisa Bond (Op Shop Chair), Jill Fissenden (Fissenden Brothers Ltd), Lynette Buurman - (Encounter Foundation)

Kaikōura stalwarts have embraced The Whale Trail vision and made it their own, stepping forward with major donations and volunteer support to create a unique new section of trail designed by the community, for the community.

The Kaikōura Community Op Shop, The Kaikōura Encounter Foundation, and Fissenden Bros Contractors have collectively pledged significant funding to advance the Kaikōura bridges project - an initiative that will move the trail off the road and deliver a safer, more enjoyable coastal walking and cycling experience. Additional skill and labour is being donated by Kaikoura Cycle Club and the trail’s design manager, Hamish Seaton.

What began as an unfunded idea has now become a community‑driven extension of The Whale Trail as locals taking the opportunity to enhance the trail in their region and have rallied together to construct 2km of off‑road connection Harnett's Creek to Middle Creek. 

Once complete, the work will provide a continuous off‑road route of approximately 13 km from Kaikōura to the Hāpuku Bridge.

Lisa Bond, Chair of Kaikōura Community Op Shop comments: “We are very proud to support The Whale Trail to create a safe, continuous off‑road connection from town to Hāpuku. The project strengthens community wellbeing and social connection and enables people of all ages and abilities to use the trail for recreation. We’re also proud to support this project which delivers clear local benefit and showcases Kaikōura’s unique coastal environment.”

Lynette Buurman, Trustee of The Kaikōura Encounter Foundation adds: “This donation helps turn planning into action and demonstrates local commitment to sustainable tourism and community wellbeing.”

Mark Fissenden, Operations Manager of Fissenden Bros Contractors adds: “We have been working on building The Whale Trail for almost a year now. It’s been amazing to see the community use it and what a great asset this is for all of our community to enjoy. We’re really proud to be involved.”

We are incredible grateful for these generous donations. This means we can create another magical stretch of trail close to Kaikōura.