Ironman New Zealand

"These days, you can travel the world and land on any continent and find and Ironman, but there is only one New Zealand! Peace and tranquility, that’s what immediately comes to my mind. I have attended this race 5 times and I cannot wait to board the plane to go back. The Bonita Ironman New Zealand is my favourite race outside of Kona for the very reason of being that you can race one day and holiday the next. It’s an event that still has a homey feel, and the community of Lake Taupo is right behind this iconic event.

Being the 2nd eldest in the Ironman Family, New Zealand has outstanding traditions and if you think the competition is easy then come again! The kiwis are tough at home, but they are proud of home. The Lake Taupo region offers an incredible variety of activites so all the family can enjoy their Ironman experience. One of my favourite things to do is to walk along the Lake and stop at a nearby hot spring feeding into the lake, and jump in. Another is to Bungy Jump and take a ride on the Huka Jet. But my all time favourite thing is a round at Wairaki Golf Course. Taupo is situated in the heart of the north Island, and situated in every Ironman’s heart after competing, truly, a very special place."

Greg Welch - Ironman World Champion 1994