Central Otago’s cycle trails have thankfully escaped the worst of the heavy rain, with only slight damage reported in some places. 

CO Clutha Trails Co Ltd director Barrie Wills, who oversees maintenance and promotion for both Roxburgh Gorge and Clutha Gold trails, said the tracks held up well. 

“Just today (Friday) we've fixed several small slumps and slips along the Alex - Dr's Point sector, mainly in the vicinity of the Narrows,” he said. 

Slips and slumps have been repaired along the Roxburgh Gorge and Clutha Gold Trails.

“In general the trail has held up well despite the heavy rain over the past week or so.”

The colour of the Clutha has changed to a murky brown as sediment washes down. 

“Note the change in water colour between today and the panorama taken back in December

Last February we had localised flooding along both the Gorge and Gold trails, hopefully no recurrence this year.”

The Clutha River/Mata-au has changed from its usual colour, to a murky brown due to sediment.

“So we are advising people to ride, walk and enjoy, but not to forget to do the online MBIE surveys please, as our maintenance funding depends on how many are done.”

The organisation needs at least 300-500 complete surveys for the upcoming year. You can complete the survey by clicking here. 

Heavy rain caused only slight damage to trails in the district. 

Central Otago Queenstown Trail Network Executive Trustee Janeen Wood said the work on the trail through the Cromwell Gorge has escaped largely unscathed. 

“The trail held up great just a few minor slips,” she said. “It was a good test. 

“We are relieved to see such little damage for such a large rain event.”

Photos contributed.