The TRC Sustainable Trails Conference, Australia and New Zealand’s premier event for professionals in the business of recreation and tourism trails, will be held in 2024 Central Otago New Zealand. The conference is now in its 5th year of bringing together leading experts in all aspects of sustainable trail development, management, planning and marketing.

Meeting on the Otago region /əˈtɑːɡoʊ/, /oʊ-, ɒ-/; Māori: Ōtākou [ɔːˈtaːkou meaning “place of red earth” located in New Zealand’s southern half of the South Island.

The region is home to over 300km of off-road cycling and walking tracks, including four of New Zealand's Great Rides – the Lake Dunstan Rail Trail, Otago Central Rail, known as NZ’s hero trail of sustainability and economic viability, Clutha Gold and Roxburgh Gorge and is close by to the Queenstown Great Ride Network.

The area boasts award-winning wineries with a globally recognised reputation in organic viticulture and regenerative agriculture, export stone fruit and a huge bounty of local produce and extensive gold rush history.

The three-day conference brings together a broad discipline of trail interests — trail users, designers, planners, land managers, volunteers, clubs and construction experts to share, connect and learn what is driving the trails industry today.

Join us and hear from leading professionals on sustainable trail development, management and marketing.

The program will include keynote speakers as well as case studies and field trips to exchange ideas and information in informal sessions. This program will also provide delegates with an opportunity to extend their knowledge and to strengthen practical skills.

The conference will focus on all aspects of sustainable trails based around the conference themes

The primary themes are:

Marketing and Positioning Great Destinations
Governance and funding
Planning and partnership models
What can enhance your trail destination
Accessibility and Inclusivity
NZ and Australia National Trail Strategy and Body
Universal Trail Grading
Regenerative Experience
Maintenance and Construction techniques and breakthroughs

Registration covers:

Conference attendance: Tuesday 19th March (commencing 8.00am) – Thursday 21st March (concluding 11pm)
Meals: Tuesday 19th (Morning tea, Lunch, Afternoon tea), Wednesday 20th (Morning tea, Lunch), Thursday 21st (Morning tea, Lunch, Afternoon tea).
Welcome function dinner: Tuesday 19th March
Conference Field Trip: 20th Wednesday
Gala dinner: Thursday 21st March

Attendees can choose from one of three field trip categories: MTB or Walking. Bus transfers and bike hire, including e-bikes or dual suspension is provided (if required). Please make your selection on your registration form.

Registrations open until March 8th, 2024. Places are limited, get in early!