DOC's work on the Otago Central Rail Trail
DOC has a strong partnership with the Otago Central Rail Trail Trust. The Trust has been instrumental in the success of the rail trail, having raised over 1.3 million dollars towards upgrades, and contributing many hours of voluntary labour.
Wedderburn Station goods shed has been
returned to its original site
Upgrade work has included re-decking bridges, and installing signage, interpretation panels, toilets and shelter sheds along the track. A particular challenge has been experimenting with methods to improve the rough surface of the old railway to give cyclists a smooth ride.
Together the Trust and DOC have worked with local communities to bring back and preserve railway heritage, such as the iconic Wedderburn Station goods shed. The community rallied together to get the shed, which was made famous in the Grahame Sydney painting 'July on the Maniototo', returned to its original site. More recently the accompanying station building was also returned to the site and restored.
The rail trail has revitalised the region's economy by bringing a huge number of people to the area and providing employment opportunities in local communities.
Prospects
Poolburn Viaduct: one of the many bridges
along the trail that requires maintenance
Maintaining the trail requires major annual work including weed control, clearing of hundreds of culverts, and bridge maintenance.
The Trust and local communities work closely with DOC to contribute to the upkeep and enhancement of the trail. Opportunities exist for companies or organisations wanting to be involved in conservation to help DOC undertake this work.