The first stage of Auckland's most ambitious cycle project so far - the $15 million Nelson Street Cycleway - has opened.
The cycle path runs from Upper Queen Street to Victoria Street and links the northwestern cycle route, Grafton Gully and the waterfront, creating a walking and cycling spine along the western side of the central business district.
The bright pink path above Auckland's central motorway junction, which features an architecturally designed bridge, is being described as a world-class infrastructure project.
It is jointly funded by the New Zealand Transport Agency, Auckland Council and Auckland Transport, and is part of $200m worth of cycle improvements planned for the city over the next three years.
The first stage has cost $15.4m and the next part of the project, due for completion next year, will cost $2.6m, bringing the total cost to $18m.
The cycle path links the northwestern cycle route, Grafton Gully and the waterfront. Photo: SUPPLIED
Transport Minister Simon Bridges said it would make Auckland safer for cyclists, cut congestion and attract tourists.
Cycle groups said it was the first step towards making Auckland a world-class cycling city. They said a clip-on cycle and pedestrian lane for the Auckland Harbour Bridge should be next.