Thousands of people flock to Taupo throughout the year to participate and/or watch the wide variety of sporting events that occur in this centrally located north island town. Lake Taupo is a popular holiday and weekend getaway destination for both New Zealanders and International visitors.

Accommodation in Taupo is plentiful and can be found along the lakefront and within walking distance to town. With so much happening throughout the year, it is always recommended you arrange accommodation well in advance of the events you wish to see/participate in.

If you are interested in the sporting events that take place in Taupo, check out the following.

International Ironman

The next Ironman in Taupo is scheduled for Saturday the 5th of March 2011, starting at 7am. Athletes from over 35 countries and across New Zealand make their way to Taupo each year to participate in this course. As you can imagine demand for local accommodation in Taupo skyrockets during and leading up to this event. Thousands of supporters line the course offering support to athletes’ whilst enjoying the summer warmth.

Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge

Yet another physical event, the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge is New Zealand’s premier cycling event. The next race is scheduled for Saturday the 27th of November 2010. Individuals and teams can participate in any one of the twelve events held, which involves a 160km circuit around Lake Taupo. This event is also a pleasure to watch from the sidelines enjoying the stunning lake and mountain views. There are spot prizes to be won and official event merchandise to purchase.

Oxfam Trailwalker Event

This fantastic team competition involves a team of four, a 100km course and a time limit of 36 hours. The next Oxfam Trailwalker event will be taking place on Saturday the 9th April 2011. This annual fundraising event supports Oxfam New Zealand's humanitarian, development and advocacy work. With around 300 team entries each year, this event certainly requires a training plan. The Oxfam Trailwalker website offers helpful information and training advice to prepare teams for this event.

There are many other exciting events throughout the year in and around Taupo. Locals are excited about the World Rowing Champs being held at Lake Karapiro not much over an hour from Taupo, and next year will see the Rugby World Cup held throughout New Zealand, with teams from Wales, Ireland and South Africa staying in Taupo.

If you would like to participate in one of the annual events, or support someone you know (or don’t know) make sure you check out accommodation in Taupo NZ sooner rather than later. Although there is no shortage of accommodation in Taupo, the centrally located motels and hotels will book out fast for these events. It is much more pleasurable being able to simply walk from your motel down to the lakefront to watch the athletes’ in action. You may even be inspired to enter one of these events yourself the following year!