Forty years of cycling around Lake Taupo celebrated

An exhibition to celebrate the 40 year history of the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge is expected to attract cycling and history enthusiasts from around the country.

The exhibition at Taupo Museum will tell the story of the event's humble beginnings, commemorate highlights, recognise volunteers, contributions and community involvement, and display records and statistics from throughout its history. The exhibition has been curated by long-time event organiser Kay Brake and local Rotarian and event supporter Dave Wakelin.

Museum exhibitions officer Kerence Stephen said it would give an interesting insight into the event's history and it was a privilege to be able to share it at the Taupo Museum.

"There is so much to learn about this amazing event, and I encourage both the community and visitors to come along and see what it's all about," Ms Stephen said. "The Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge is an integral part of the Taupo District's identity and history and it makes for a fascinating story."

Ms Brake said the first event was in 1977 and was a fundraiser for the local IHC association. It was organised by a local school teacher, Walter de Bont, who waved the group off with then-president of the IHC, Joan Williamson, and mayor of the day, Clem Currie.

She said the spectacular scenery and challenging 160km course has kept riders returning annually to face the challenge for 40 years.

"It began with just 26 cyclists journeying around the newly-sealed road around the lake," Ms Brake said. "They donned t-shirts, stubbies and aviators and took on the great challenge that has now grown to become so iconic in our district."

Ms Brake said funds raised by the event have always been returned to the community. It is currently being run by Lake Taupo Rotary Club through the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge Trust, which distributes the funding to the community. More than 178,000 participants have taken part and almost $3.4 million has been distributed to community groups since it began 40 years ago.

The Lake Taupo Cycle Challengeexhibition has been sponsored by the Lake Taupo Rotary Club and runs from Saturday, November 5 to Monday, December 12, with an official opening at 5.30pm on Friday, November 4. The museum is open seven days from 10am to 4.30pm. Entry is free to children and Taupo District residents with proof of address.