How the Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge became a Taupō icon

Cafés fill before sunrise. Accommodation is chokka. Support crews line the CBD roads, and the great lake becomes the backdrop to one of New Zealand's most iconic events. 

For riders, it's a weekend of challenge, achievement and celebration. For Taupō, it's something even bigger. Few people understand that better than Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge Event Director Hayden Dickason. 

A world-class event

Having joined the organisation in 2012 before stepping into the Event Director role in 2021, Dickason oversees everything from sponsorship and marketing through to operations, compliance and the countless moving parts required to bring the event to life. And we’re not talking about spokes, chains and derailleurs.

"I almost see myself as the conductor of the orchestra," he says. "We've got a fantastic management team, but my role is making sure all of those different pieces come together to deliver a world-class event."

For Dickason, however, the real reward isn't found in spreadsheets or logistics. It's seeing Taupō come alive.

"Seeing the thousands of riders and supporters in town every year, and what they do for our region and our economy, is what excites me. The experience people have and the excitement they get from taking part is fantastic."

More supporters than riders travel to Taupō across the final weekend of November, creating a vibrant atmosphere that spreads well beyond the finish line. And that's exactly how Dickason believes it should be.

More than a bike ride

The Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge began in 1977 when 26 local cyclists decided to ride around the lake to raise money for charity. Nearly five decades later, it has grown into one of New Zealand's premier cycling events while staying remarkably true to its original purpose.

Unlike many major events, the Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge remains locally owned, is a Rotary event, and operated through a charitable trust. For Dickason, that's what makes it special.

"We're locally owned, we're not-for-profit, and any surplus created from the event goes straight back into the community via Lake Taupo Rotary. It makes all of us incredibly proud to be involved."

Hayden Dickason

That philosophy extends well beyond event weekend. Each year, the event generates more than $7 million in economic benefit for the Taupō region while deliberately investing in local suppliers, contractors and community organisations.

Around 400 workers representing approximately 30 community groups help bring the event to life, with about $75,000 returned annually to those organisations. A further $400,000 is spent with local contractors and suppliers, ensuring the benefits of the event continue to circulate throughout the local economy.

Q&A with Hayden Dickason

LT: What makes the Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge unique?

HD: "I think it's the atmosphere. Thousands of like-minded cyclists all coming together, the camaraderie, the excitement and the buzz around town. That's why around 70 percent of our participants return from previous years. People simply want to come back."

LT: Why does Taupō suit an event like this?

HD: "We're blessed. We've got an incredible lake, mountains, geothermal attractions, fantastic hospitality, great accommodation and some really unique retail. Tourism and events play such an important role here. Without them, Taupō would be a very different town."

LT: How has the event evolved?

HD: "We've always looked at how cycling is changing. While the iconic 160km Round the Lake ride remains the heart of the event, we've introduced mountain biking, gravel riding, shorter road events and e-bike options to make sure there's something for everyone."

LT: What’s the biggest challenge in running an event of this scale?

HD: "The scale is probably the hardest part. You're effectively running a small city for a weekend. From traffic management, to safety, accommodation, workers and weather contingencies, there are a lot of moving parts that all have to align at exactly the right time."

LT: What role do the community groups play in the event’s success?

HD: "We simply couldn't do it without them. Many of our people have been involved for years, and they bring an incredible amount of knowledge and passion. They’re often the first and last point of contact for participants, so they really help shape the experience."

LT: How important is safety in an event like this?

HD: "Safety underpins everything we do. With thousands of riders on open roads, we work closely with emergency services, local authorities and our own team to make sure every participant and our people can enjoy the event with confidence."

LT: What does success look like for you personally?

HD: "For me, success is pretty simple. It's seeing people cross the finish line with a smile, hearing the stories they take home, and knowing the event has had a positive impact on the community. If we achieve that, we've done our job."

LT: Why does giving back matter?

HD: "Because that's who we are. The community helps bring this event to life, so it's only right the event gives back. Whether it's helping schools, sports clubs or community groups, that's something we're really proud of."

Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge by the numbers

• First held in 1977
• 48th running takes place in 2026
• Started with 26 riders
• More than $7 million annual economic benefit
• Around 400 workers representing approximately 30 community groups
• Around $75,000 returned to community organisations each year
• Approximately $400,000 spent annually with local contractors and suppliers
• Nine different event categories
• The iconic 160km Shimano Round the Lake ride remains the flagship event

A love affair with Taupō

Although Dickason jokes that some locals might argue you need to live in Taupō for 20 years before earning local status, the region has long felt like home. After years of holidaying in Taupō, the couple made the move permanently in 2011 and have never looked back.

"My wife and I always said we'd retire here one day...We've put down our roots here and we've got no intention of ever leaving."

Ask Dickason what visitors should experience beyond the Cycle Challenge and the answer comes quickly. From the cafés, restaurants and independent retailers, to a cruise out to the Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings, the geothermal attractions, Huka Falls and, of course, the lake itself, he believes there's something for everyone.

"You only have to look around you. Who wouldn't want to live here?"

Looking towards the future

The 2026 event will mark the 48th running of the Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge, with organisers already building towards the milestone 50th running in 2028. While the event proudly celebrates its heritage, Dickason believes its future depends on continuing to evolve alongside the sport.

Recent years have seen gravel riding added to the programme, alongside continued growth in mountain biking and increasing participation from e-bike riders.

"The future of cycling is really strong. We're always looking at how the sport evolves and making sure the event evolves with it."

Above all, though, he hopes the Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge never loses sight of what has made it one of New Zealand's great participation events.

"It's an opportunity to celebrate. It brings people together, creates a real festival atmosphere and gives people a reason to challenge themselves while experiencing everything that's great about Taupō."

Nearly 50 years after 26 cyclists first pedalled around New Zealand's largest lake, that spirit continues to inspire thousands of riders to make the journey every November - and keeps one of the country's most iconic sporting traditions firmly woven into the fabric of Taupō.

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