Link road key to local tourism

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 242, 10 May 1988, Page 2

Link road key to local tourism

By

James

Graham

The development of tourism in Raetihi may depend heavily on when Pipiriki Road can be upgraded, according to the Mayor of Waimarino District, Garrick Workman. To get the money needed, the District Council plans to put together a case for "special-purpose" funding from the Government. "I hope it will be within the next financial year," says Mr Workman.

He says that one too many close calls stopped tour buses using the scenic route along the Wanganui River about 10 years ago. Since then, Raetihi has not had the same volume of tourist traffic. Tourist development would take off, he says, if the road was improved. "Once you get the buses moving through, then you'll get motels being built," he says. The problem the District Council has is finding the funds

needed to start the upgrading. Mr Workman says that because very few people live along the road, the amount of rates from there is minimal. At present, he says, the council is restricted by a road-maintenance budget that is nowhere near the hundreds of thousands of dollars required. The Government's special-purpose funding scheme was used for upgrading the Ohakune Mountain Road. Mr Workman is hoping the Government will realise the tourist potential along Pipiriki Road, too. He says outdoor activities have become more popular and people's interests will be well catered for with things like jet-boat rides, tramping, fishing, canoeing and hunting. A few tourist firms are already operating along the road. "If we can get the Government to come to the party, along with the council and maybe a tourist operator, then we'll be in business," says Mr Workman. "Tourist development along the road is dependent on improved access."