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NZ’s Premier Cycling Event

New Zealand’s largest cycling occasion, and arguably one of the country’s largest sports participation events is again looking forward to welcoming thousands of riders and supporters to the Taupō region on Saturday 28 November 2026.

With a philosophy of inclusion, the Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge offers a wide variety of options to get on your bike and be part of the annual pilgrimage to one of New Zealand’s longest and most established events, celebrating its 48th running in 2026.

28 November 2026

ENTRIES OPEN

25 May 2026

 

  • Shimano Round the Lake

    Take on the challenge of the Shimano Round the Lake, the pillar event of the Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge. Iconic scenery and a ride like no other circumnavigating Great Lake Taupō.

  • Great Lake 100

    The Great Lake 100 is built for riders chasing that sweet-spot challenge - longer than the Length of the Lake, but not as demanding as the iconic Shimano Round the Lake.

  • Independent Traffic Control Length of the Lake

    The Independent Traffic Control Length of the Lake takes you along the lake’s most scenic stretch, riding from the southern shores back toward the event village in central Taupō.

  • Tineli Huka Challenge

    Bringing back the Challenge!

    Delivering epic views across Lake Taupō, these incredible mountain bike trails wind you through pine forests and native bush, in a ride that’s as scenic as it is unforgettable.

  • Huka Steamer

    The most popular mountain biking event and with good reason, the Huka Steamer is epic, challenging and offers up all the iconic scenery expected from the event.

  • Huka Teaser

    The perfect mountain biking event for those looking to take the plunge into events with a generous dose of fun, atmosphere and excitement, the Huka Teaser ticks all the boxes.

  • Enduro

    Have you got what it takes to lap Great Lake Taupō not once, but twice in this epic Enduro road ride showcasing some of the Central North Island’s most breath-taking scenery?

  • Gravel Grind

    Let the gravel fly! This adventure ride offers course diversity (tar seal, gravel and MTB Tracks), scenery and a chance to experience parts of Taupō, unique to this special course.

  • Lakesider

    Grab your friends, family and your bike and make a weekend of it. A leisurely riding which offers all the best bits - scenery, atmosphere and a chance to be a part of NZ’s largest cycling event.

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Giving Back to the Community

Every year the Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge make contributions to community groups in return for providing volunteers who help make the event come to life.

For the 2025 event we were able to contribute over $75,000 to our local community groups by way of volunteer payments.

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