This Saturday thousands of cyclists from around the country will be heading to Taupō to take part in the annual Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge.
Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge(external link)
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) advises anyone driving on SH32, SH41 and SH1 around the lake on Saturday to plan extra time for their journey, please be patient and allow plenty of room when passing bikes.
Those driving on SH1 through Taupō are reminded that the northern section of SH1 East Taupō Arterial is closed until early December, with traffic detoured down Broadlands Road, Ohaaki Road and SH5.
The Gravel Grind course for the Cycle Challenge crosses Broadlands Road twice and Stop/Go traffic control will be in place to give the crossing cyclists priority in both locations. Drivers are also advised to expect heavy traffic and a number of bikes in Taupō itself on event day.
Besides the extra bike traffic on Saturday, drivers around the central North Island should be aware of the event traffic heading to Taupō on Friday and then returning home on Sunday.
Many cyclists travel from the Auckland area for the Cycle Challenge and they are reminded that as part of the SH1 maintenance project that the stretch between Putāruru and Tokoroa is now closed, with detours in place.
There may be other work sites on SH1 so NZTA recommends drivers allow extra time for journeys through the central North Island and we also suggest checking www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz(external link) for the latest traffic and travel information.
