A proposed cycleway through the Western Bay of Plenty could boost the region's economy by $6 million a year, according to Tourism Bay of Plenty general manager Tim Burgess.
He says the cycleway is a massive opportunity for the region and he urges the community to pull together to make it happen.

Tourism BOP general manager Tim Burgess.

The government established a fund earlier this year for regions throughout New Zealand to carry out feasibility studies into cycleways.
A feasibility study into the Western Bay's proposed cycleway between Matakana Island and Waihi will cost about $150,000.
"We want people to think about this as a long-term community asset that will benefit our communities because it will connect them by other means than motorised vehicles and we must not forget that this walking and cycling trail is for everyone - it will be as much for locals as for visitors," says Tim.