Glenorchy Trails Trust Reaches Key Milestone with Full Funding Secured for Buckler Burn Trail and Bridge

Dec 17, 2024

• Share

Glenorchy Trails Trust Reaches Key Milestone with Full Funding
Secured for Buckler Burn Trail and Bridge
GLENORCHY, NEW ZEALAND – The Glenorchy Trails Trust is thrilled to announce that construction of the
highly anticipated Buckler Burn Trail, including an iconic suspension bridge, is set to begin in January 2025. This
exciting milestone has been made possible through the incredible generosity of donors and supporters, with
recent grants from the Hugo Charitable Trust and the Lotteries Community Fund securing the full funding
required for the project.
The centrepiece of this initiative is a striking walking and cycling suspension bridge over the Buckler Burn. This
essential infrastructure will connect the Glenorchy township to the Whakaari Conservation Park and lay the
foundation for the Trust’s long-term vision of a trail linking Glenorchy and Queenstown. The bridge will enhance
safety, accessibility, and enjoyment for locals and visitors alike, while serving as a stunning landmark in
Glenorchy’s natural landscape.
Hugo Charitable Trust: A Transformative Contribution
The Trust is particularly grateful to the Hugo Charitable Trust, which has generously granted $175,000 to fund the
bridge. As a cornerstone donor for this project, Hugo Charitable Trust’s support exemplifies its commitment to
empowering local communities and fostering outdoor recreation. Founded in 2017 by Maryanne Green in honour
of her father, Hugh Green, the Trust continues his philanthropic legacy of supporting impactful projects that
create lasting benefits for New Zealanders.
“The Hugo Charitable Trust’s investment in this bridge is transformative for our project and our community,” said
Steve Hewland Chair of the Glenorchy Trails Trust. “Their generosity and belief in our vision will leave a lasting
legacy, providing a vital link for residents and visitors to enjoy the spectacular trails and natural beauty of
Glenorchy.” To honour this gift and the legacy of Hugh Green the bridge will be named the Hugo Bridge -
Glenorchy. 
Lotteries Community Fund and Other Key Supporters
Further cementing this project’s success, the Glenorchy Trails Trust was recently awarded $220,000 from the
Lotteries Community Facilities Fund—the largest grant application in the Trust’s history. This significant
contribution ensures the full cost of the Buckler Burn Trail and bridge is covered, allowing construction to proceed
on schedule. While the Lotteries Community Facilities Fund’s nationwide presence is well-established, its support
for local initiatives like this one reflects a shared dedication to supporting small communities across New
Zealand.
The Trust also acknowledges earlier contributions from Community Trust South, Central Lakes Trust, Glenorchy
Community Trust, Alexander McMillan, QLDC and numerous individual donors, all of whom played a vital role in
making this vision a reality.
A Trail for the Future
Once completed, the Buckler Burn Trail will serve as a critical link to the Whakaari Conservation Park,
encouraging outdoor recreation and boosting the local economy. This trail and bridge also mark the beginning of
a much larger, life-changing project: a proposed 50km trail connecting Glenorchy to Queenstown. When realized,
this long-term vision will create one of the most scenic trails in the world, drawing cyclists and walkers to
experience the breathtaking landscapes of the region.
The Glenorchy Trails Trust is deeply appreciative of the support from all its partners and looks forward to
beginning construction in the new year. This milestone represents not just the culmination of years of hard work
and collaboration, but also the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Glenorchy community.
Media Contacts:
• Steve Hewland, Chairman, Glenorchy Trail Trust – info@glenorchytrailstrust.org.nz
• John Schuitemaker, Trustee, Glenorchy Trail Trust – info@glenorchytrailstrust.org.nz

Related documents:

• GTT Media Release Full Funding w Hugo (DOCX, 16.22 KB)