- Best place for a scenic run
Take to the trails through Spa Park to Huka Falls, cross the bridge and up into the redwoods, back to town along the river, past Taupō Bungee. I used to run that every day after school, the same thing, my little ritual. It’s 13.5km and you can bike it, too. - A walk to stretch the legs
Head along the Kinloch waterfront and follow Whangamata Stream through the bush peaceful woodland. It’s absolutely beautiful. Look out for the new route, coming soon, around Kinloch from the village centre to Whangamata Road and then either through the stream trail or down Oakdale Drive back to Kinloch. This is going to be very cool. - Water watch
Huka Falls is a sight to behold - gallons of clean blue water flow over the falls. making it a spectacular sight, further down the river is Aratiatia Dam, which opens up at 10am, 12 noon, 2pm and 4pm each day to allow a massive amount of water through – well worth a visit to see this happening. - Taupō's best lake swim spots
Jump in the lake on Taupō central lake front, at Acacia Bay boat ramp, Kinloch or Whakaipo Bay. There are so few places in the world where the lake water is this clean and clear. Check out other top swimming spots -
- Take you mind off the big race and get golfing
You have to try the classic Taupō hole-in-one on the lakefront. Everyone wants to have a go. But otherwise, I love Kinloch Village Golf Club. It’s my local – I grew up at the end of Whangamata Rd – and my European friends can’t believe how cheap and beautiful it is for a round. - Get off the tarmac onto the trails for some fun biking
Craters Mountain Bike park is huge fun - ride around the challenging and not so challenging bike trails, whatever takes your fancy. - Every Kiwi loves a meat pie
You can’t go past Patiki Bakery, for a steak and cheese pie-licious! - Keep up the nutrition with tasty protein
Go to The Taupo Steakhouse on Tongariro Street for the prime ribeye and sweet potato mash. My guilty pleasure is red wine jus and chef Monty is first class. I used to wash dishes for Monty in my youth, he is an awesome guy. - The athletes caffeine fix
As an athlete, I live on caffeine. I’m often running my batteries on empty. So I go to Replete, Cafe Baku or Storehouse – awesome service and treats. - Keep the endorphins pumping with an adrenaline rush
For thrills, ride the Huka falls jetboat or Rapids Jet. Otherwise bungy, or skydive - the scenery and views here are so breathtaking. - If you're after quieter thrills
Take the Huka River Cruise from Aratiatia Dam to the base of the famous Huka Falls waterfall, and enjoy a nice relaxing afternoon on board. - Need bike repairs, or a new bike?
For as long as I can remember, Brendon at My Ride Taupo has supported local athletes and clubs. He’s an awesome dude who really gets behind the town and I’d say it’s one of the best place to get your bike serviced.
