"Finding Balance – A Community Connected by Trails"
Alexandra, New Zealand – Friday 20 December 2024
Tourism Central Otago is thrilled to announce the public release of the film, "Finding Balance – A Community Connected by Trails."
This inspiring documentary, shot, captured, and edited by local Alexandra filmmaker Will Nelson explores the profound impact of trails on the Alexandra community.
"Finding Balance" has already been screened as part of the Big Bike Film Festival throughout 2024. The documentary has engaged audiences across 135 screenings reaching 16,477 people in New Zealand, Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Guernsey. Additionally, it was showcased at a Polish Film Festival, complete with Polish subtitles, further broadening its global reach.
The film was produced to highlight the wider impact and value of trails for the community, and how the community builds vibrancy and connection through shared experiences. This film beautifully captures the essence of the community and the iconic landscapes, starting from the creation of the Original Great Ride of New Zealand, the Otago Central Rail Trail, through to a developing mountain bike scene, and the impact on individuals within the community. The growth in usage of the trail network and cycling has provided a range of opportunities for local communities, with businesses developing, riders competing internationally, attracting visitors to the district, and the wider community engaging in recreational activities on the trails.
The value to tourism in Central Otago, and New Zealand is significant. Research by Ngā Haerenga NZ Cycle Trail Inc shows that the trails bring $1 billion annually in visitor expenditure into regional New Zealand. This economic boost underscores the importance of trail networks not only for recreation but also for the vitality of local economies.
We invite everyone to watch the film and listen to the powerful stories of connection and community that "Finding Balance" brings to life.
For more information, please visit Finding Balance – A Community Connected by Trails | Central Otago for more information and inspiration on the cycling and mountain biking network in Central Otago visit https://centralotagonz.com/tracks-and-trails/
Direct link to video - Mountain Bike Film | Finding Balance – A Community Connected by Trails | Alexandra, Central Otago NZ
About TCO:
Tourism Central Otago is dedicated to promoting and supporting the development of Central Otago as a destination that is aligned with the community ambitions for place. This is guided by the Central Otago Destination Management Plan. Projects like "Finding Balance," we aim to foster a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that our region offers.
Contact: Anthony Longman, Head of Destination, Tourism Central Otago
Email: Anthony.Longman@codc.govt.nz
Mob: +64 21 721 770
