This is the thirteenth year that Ironman NZ have held the event in Taupo and the hosting rights for a further five years was confirmed at the sponsors dinner at Hilton Hotel tonight (Friday 4 March 2011). This will provide real longevity to the event, taking it up to at least 2016.
Mayor Rick Cooper could hardly contain his enthusiasm saying this vote of confidence from Ironman NZ reinforces the district's reputation as the Events Capital of New Zealand and strikes to the heart of the Taupo economy. He says a survey[1] done on the economic impact on the town estimated at least $1.4M of additional income is generated by visitors during this event, as well as another $1M flowing through from local businesses taking on extra labour and supplies.
Mayor Cooper says in addition to economic boost, the event also lifts the spirits of the town and is embraced by young and old. "This event is so etched into the hearts and minds of Taupo residents who rollout the welcome mat every year and turn out to cheer on the competitors, many of who are old friends. The whole town pitches in and I can never say enough about the passion and commitment of all the race organisers and volunteers who make this event possible. I am a very proud Mayor."
Jane Patterson, Event Director, Ironman New Zealand said, "we knew we had a winner when we moved Ironman to Taupo in 1999. It had all the elements we needed – a crystal clear lake, an ideal course, a welcoming town with welcoming citizens.
"Taupo has over-delivered on every aspect that is important to the success of this event. That in 2011 we have doubled the number of entrants than we did back in 1999 speaks volumes.
"In short it has become a great race in a great place. We are delighted that this partnership will continue for another five years and hopefully for much longer after that," she said.
