Giant bike returns to home on the hill

6 November 2015

The giant bike sculpture removed from the top of Control Gates Hill after it was vandalised last year has been repaired and returned to its home.

The sculpture was badly bent out of shape when it was hit by vandals in late February 2014. It appeared someone had used a vehicle to try and pull the bike off its concrete mount.

Mayor David Trewavas said it was wonderful to have the sculpture back in its rightful spot before the Contact Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge later this month.

The giant bike sculpture is part of Taupo's landscape and is admired and appreciated by our community and visitors, he said. We are a well-known cycling destination and to have it back up and looking good as new is fantastic.

Extra protection measures had been put in place in an effort to prevent vandalism in the future, including large rocks that aimed to prevent vehicles getting close to it.

The iconic sculpture was first installed on the corner State Highway 1 and Poihipi Road in September 2012 to celebrate Taupo's proud cycling heritage. Taupo District Council contributed $3500 toward the $55,000 cost, with the rest fundraised by the community. The repair of the sculpture was again fundraised by the community, with sponsors names listed on a second drink bottle on the bike.

Since its installation the three-metre high bike, designed and built by Waitahanui artist Marcel Zwezerijnen, has seen many locals and visitors taking the opportunity to be photographed with the sculpture.

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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Lisa Nairne Communications Manager 07 376 0762 027 839 8410

Vicki Waterhouse Communications Advisor 07 376 0718 027 484 2549

Taupo District Council

www.taupo.govt.nz