This December the world’s best endurance athletes will converge on Taupō to swim, bike and run the Vinfast Ironman 70.3 World Championships for 2024.
Vinfast Ironman 70.3 World Championships 2024(external link)
“While athletes complete their training, road users should also prepare for day time road closures and an influx in visitors,” says Andrew Brosnan, Waikato Journey Manager for NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA)
“Around 6000 competitors plus their supporters are expected to travel from overseas to take part in the event, with most of them arriving in Taupō up to a week prior to race day, so it’s going to be a busy time on the roads,” Mr Brosnan says.
As part of the cycle leg of the event, State Highway 5 between Wairakei and Golden Springs will be closed from 6am to 5pm on Saturday 14 December and again on Sunday 15 December.
While SH5 is closed, traffic between Taupō and Rotorua will be detoured via SH1 and SH30 through Ātiamuri.
“This will only add approximately 5 minutes to journey times,” says Mr Brosnan, “but drivers should also be aware that Broadlands Road, a common alternative route between Taupō and Rotorua, will also be closed as it is on the cycle route for the Ironman.”
“Regular users of SH5 and Broadlands Road will already be seeing an increase in cyclists on the road leading up to the event as athletes familiarise themselves with the course, so please drive carefully and be mindful of cyclists,” Mr Brosnan says.
To coincide with the event, there will be no SH1 maintenance project work happening between Tokoroa and Taupō during the Ironman and in the week beforehand.
SH1 Tīrau to Waiouru maintenance
Drivers are also reminded that on Saturday 30 November the annual Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge will see thousands of cyclists take to the roads around the lake. Cyclists will be heading north on State Highway 1 between Turangi and Taupō and drivers are asked to be patient and allow plenty of room when passing.
Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge (external link)
The 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, with Stop/Go traffic control in place to give the crossing cyclists priority in both locations.
Media release - Taupō SH1 maintenance jumps the queue
NZTA recommends drivers allow extra time for journeys if travelling through Taupō on 30 November and we also suggest checking Journey Planner for the latest traffic and travel information.
Journey Planner(external link)
Wairakei to Reporoa full road closure map [PDF, 561 KB]
