A new cycle route will link Queen Charlotte Track in the Marlborough Sounds with central Christchurch.

A continuous cycle trail stretching more than 400 kilometres from Marlborough to Christchurch is a step closer to reality after it was backed by the Christchurch City Council.

The route will link Ship Cove – a small bay at the top of Queen Charlotte Track where Captain James Cook anchored in 1770 to replenish supplies – with central Christchurch.

Though early in the planning stages and with no set completion date, it will provide a spine for other routes being developed along the way, branching off towards the Cheviot coast, vineyards in the Waipara Valley and paths inland to Hanmer Springs.

The trail, which is expected to cost $8.95 million to build and $150,000 a year in maintenance, could attract up to 35,000 visitors a year.

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A feasibility study last year estimated it could generate income of between $67m and $131m for the region over 20 years.

Christchurch councillors on Thursday agreed to back the project and work with their counterparts in Marlborough, Kaikōura, Hurunui and Waimakariri district councils, which are already on board.

Mayor Lianne Dalziel said: "I love the idea of a cycle route connecting our city with Picton so I am thrilled we are getting involved in this project and helping it to become a reality.

"It will be a winner with recreational cyclists and with visitors to the South Island who want to experience heartland New Zealand and see parts of the country they wouldn't see driving on the main highways."

IAIN MCGREGOR/STUFF Much of the route through Christchurch is already largely in place.

The Christchurch leg starts at Cathedral Square, follows the paths and quiet roads along the Avon River to New Brighton, turns north along the coastline and passes through Bottle Lake Park before turning inland at Brooklands and eventually crossing the Waimakariri River at the motorway.

Most of this section can be ridden already, though signs and minor improvements will be brought in.

An alternative route will be possible when the new Christchurch northern corridor motorway opens in 2021.

The ride will become a Heartland trail, designed as part of the New Zealand Cycle Trail to encourage cyclists on to scenic back-country roads.

Mark Inglis – from the Hurunui Trails Trust, which is helping co-ordinate the project – said the joint agreement was a "cornerstone" to the collaboration needed to get the route up and running.

"Cyclists already try and navigate down our east coast, with most taking on the challenge that is the heavily trafficked State Highway 1. Our route provides a safe and scenic ride, designed by cyclists for cyclists.

"Equally importantly it will provide significant opportunities, not just for the rural communities it traverses, but for all who are on or near the route."