Taupo is in the running for the top place to ride

‘‘We want to rally the region together so we come out on top.’’ Anna McLaren.

The Great Lake Taupo region is in the running for the top spot in several categories of the just-launched NZ’s Favourite Places to Ride 2017 competition.

The NZ Transport Agency launched its annual competition this week, and Destination Great Lake Taupo¯ is asking people to vote for the region in the five categories.

The competition is all about getting kiwis to identify, share and celebrate their favourite places to ride throughout New Zealand.

‘‘We want to rally the region together so we come out on top and showcase the amazing riding opportunities we have here,’’ Marketing manager for Destination Great Lake Taupo Anna McLaren said.

‘‘We have the North Island’s most diverse range of trails with over 200km of mountain bike trails, urban rides like the lakefront Great Lake Walkway, the beautiful Tongariro River Trail and one of the most stunning sections of the NZ Cycle Trail – the Great Lake Trail.’’

McLaren said Great Lake Taupo should be on the map for people as a top riding destination for all ages and abilities and this competition was a chance to make sure this happens.

She is asking people to spread the word and get their friends, families and colleagues voting.

Nominations are open from 10 April to 31 May and the winners will be announced in June.