Recognition for Taupo at international event awards

The Taupo District's reputation as New Zealand's events capital has been further cemented after Taupo was named as a 2016 International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA) World Festival and Event City.

The award recognises cities that provide an environment conducive to successful festivals and events and was presented to the Taupo District at the 2016 IFEA conference held in Tucson, Arizona last night. This is the second time the district has claimed an award, previously taking out the honour in 2010.

Taupo District Council chief executive Gareth Green said the whole community can be proud of the recognition.

"This award isn't just great news for our events team and the organisers behind all of our events. It's also recognition for the thousands of local volunteers who give up time every year to make our events so successful.

"The Taupo District boasts a friendly, supportive and professional environment for the 125,000 people that participate in events in our region each year, and we are proud of our reputation that keeps these visitors coming back. This award will help boost that reputation even further."

The successful application was submitted with support from the organisers of a number of our large annual events, including IRONMAN New Zealand, Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge, Taupo Summer Concert, the Great Lake Relay and Wanderlust Great Lake Taupo.

The judging panel commended the Taupo District for receiving the award twice, saying partnerships between council and event partners has helped the district build a successful model that breaks new ground and sets a strong example for other towns and cities internationally.

For more information and to view the Taupo District entry, visit www.ifea.com.