A railway tunnel left unused for 60 years is about to confide in cyclists and walkers.
On Sunday, Spooners Tunnel will develop into the most recent part of the Nelson Tasman Nice Style Path to be unveiled.
At 1.35km, will probably be the Southern Hemisphere’s longest tunnel used solely by cyclists and walkers.
It is darkish, it is chilly, and it is all one straight line. When you cycle south to north, the mild downward slope will help you principally freewheel the whole distance.
That is simply the newest cycleway to convey new life to historic New Zealand.
Spooner’s Tunnel is in Belgrove, south-west of Nelson.
Opened in 1893, the tunnel was dug by hand.
It was supposed to attach Nelson to the West Coast, nevertheless it solely acquired to Gowanbridge earlier than the Authorities of the day pulled the pin.
In 1955, the tracks have been pulled up and the tunnel boarded up.
Cycle Path Chair Gillian Wratt says biking opens up the nation “in a means that driving does not.”
It could possibly be the right faculty vacation expertise — and it is free. Simply keep in mind your torch and jacket.
Watch the video for the complete Story report.