New Zealand Government Invests $405,000 to Upgrade Horopito Visitor Facilities on Great Ride

The New Zealand Government has committed $405,000 to upgrade visitor infrastructure at Horopito, a key junction on the Mountains to Sea – Ngā Ara Tūhono Great Ride. The project will add public toilets, safe shuttle access, parking and other amenities to a site that sees more than 67,000 visitors annually, including Great Ride participants. Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said the investment will enhance safety, accessibility and visitor satisfaction, encouraging longer stays in the region. Horopito sits on the edge of Tongariro National Park near Ohakune, and the upgrade aims to support the growing number of trail users while benefiting local businesses and communities through sustainable tourism growth. Construction is ready to begin, with the goal of maintaining the trail’s high‑quality experience for years to come.