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Love the Ride!

The Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge – New Zealand’s largest cycling event – is all go for November this year.

Celebrating its 46th running on Saturday 30 November 2024, entries open at 9am on 1 May 2024 for this iconic event.

Since its introduction in 2022, the Gravel Grind (approx. 75km) is proving hugely popular and it’s no surprise given it uses local MTB tracks, gravel roads, farm tracks, and tar sealed roads, not always accessible to the public.

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.

Our programme

There’s exciting news in the events mountain bike category options on offer this year. As well as the traditional Huka Steamer (approx. 60km), Huka Teaser (approx. 30km) MTB events, the Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge has also announced the introduction of the Tineli Huka Hundy (approx. 100km), a brand-new event category for this year and supported by new sponsor, Tineli, the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge’s new official merchandise provider.

Across approx. 100km of incredible mountain bike tracks, the Tineli Huka Hundy will be no ride in the park, will push riders to the limits, and is a great chance to be part of history when lining up on the start line on Saturday 30 November, it's going to be one heck of a ride!

What you need to know

No matter what type of riding you’re into, there’s an option for anyone to be part of one of New Zealand’s largest cycling occasions, whether it’s one of the events mountain bike categories, or the iconic Shimano Round The Lake (approx. 160km), the 2 lap Enduro (approx. 320km), and the Independent Traffic Control Length Of The Lake (approx. 55km) road categories.

Whether you’re a roadie, a mountain biker, a gravel junkie or just looking for a recreational ride with the family, we’ve got something that’ll tick the box for you.

Come join us in November.