Work to develop the Kaikōura to Hāpuka section of the more than 200km-long Whale Trail has begun.

The cycling and walking trail will connect Picton and Kaikōura.

Plans for the Whale Trail were developed following the 2016 Kaikōura earthquake when the badly damaged SH1 route was undergoing reconstruction. The Marlborough Kaikōura Trust manages the trail. 

Kaikōura District Council is working with the trust and the Kaikōura Cycling Club on the 13km section to Hāpuku.

Existing cycle tracks are being upgraded from Kaikōura northwards to Hāpuku.