New Coastal Cycle Route Opens

Silverdale’s newest cycle route is now open, creating a continuous, traffic-separated journey between West Harbour and Alder Point. The 14-kilometre path follows the old coast road, passing dune gardens, two sheltered beaches and the newly restored Mariner’s Lookout. Designed for everyday journeys as well as weekend rides, it connects four neighbourhoods with the university, harbour market and regional rail station.

The route was shaped through eighteen months of consultation with residents, disability advocates, schools and local businesses. Its gentle gradients and broad passing places make it welcoming to handcycles, adapted bikes and less confident riders. Three repair stands, refill taps and shaded rest areas have been installed along the way, while low-level amber lighting protects views of the night sky and limits disturbance to nesting birds.

At Saturday’s opening ride, more than 600 people travelled the full route behind the Silverdale Youth Cycling Club. “We wanted a path where an eight-year-old and an eighty-year-old could ride together without feeling hurried,” said project lead Mateo Ruiz. “That is the test we kept returning to.”

Native planting will continue through autumn, supported by volunteers from Coastwatch Silverdale. Riders are asked to slow down near the saltmarsh boardwalk, give way at shared crossings and use the marked bicycle parking at Alder Point. Free route maps are available at the visitor centre, libraries and participating cafés.