Just because it's autumn doesn't mean the number of events in the Bay of Plenty is abating, says Tourism Bay of Plenty general manager Rhys Arrowsmith.
The autumn season will kick off with the State NZ Swim Series in Mount Maunganui on March 16. Entrants can choose between the I'm Going Long 2.6km, Step it Up 1000m, or Give it a Go 300m swims. Kids can participate in the State Ocean Kids swim, which includes a 30 minute water safety activity followed by a 200m shallow swim.
This is closely followed by The Goat on March 23rd, a 17km off road adventure run from the Wairere Falls, over the Kaimai Ranges to Aongatete Lodge in Katikati.
Also on the 23rd of March is the inaugural Tauranga Harbour Challenge, Tauranga's answer to King of the Harbour in Auckland. The race caters for stand-up paddle boarders, surf-skiers and outrigger paddlers with races from 3km to 25km.
The Tauranga Half Marathon is on April 14th. The marathon is suitable for a wide variety of fitness levels as it offers everything from a 21.1km on-road course through to the Matua Mile 1.6km fun run.
Rounding out April is the Kaimai Classic, the Bay of Plenty's iconic 70km multisport adventure from the picturesque McLaren Falls Park to Te Puna. It involves a 5km run, 17km mountain bike, 11km kayak and 26km cycle, topped off with an 11km run. The event can be completed as a team or by an individual.
Tourism Bay of Plenty general manager Rhys Arrowsmith says that although the Bay of Plenty lives up to its reputation as a top beach destination over summer, more and more tourists are coming to the region in autumn and winter to enter sporting events.
"The number of visitors to the region has historically dropped over the colder months, but events like these continue to encourage tourism in the area," he says.
"We've got the accommodation and food and beverage offerings to support large events, so it makes absolute sense to host them here in the Bay. Besides, many residents live an active lifestyle and are keen to participate."
In total the five events have received almost 2,000 registrations, with at least another 1,000 expected. Arrowsmith says this is a positive indication of a strong autumn season for tourism in the Bay.
