We might not have completed the Cape Argus yet, but my dear beloved has found yet another Cycle Tour that is longer, probably harder, and definitely further away than the one in South Africa, and surreptitiously added it on to our Bucket List when I wasn’t looking!

Set in the North Island of New Zealand, the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge 2013 is set to take place on 30^th November, and unless I can think of a really good excuse between now and July (when registration opens), it looks as though I will be getting on my bike once again – and this time cycling 160km around New Zealand’s largest lake!

As New Zealand’s largest cycling event with over 10,000 participants, the Lake Taupo Challenge is sure to be a wonderful affair, and as it claims to be suitable for cyclist of “varying abilities and fitness levels”, I am sure even I will manage to make my way around this beautiful expanse of deep blue water.

The wonderful thing about Lake Taupo is that it is right in the middle of New Zealand’s North Island, and as such, it is the perfect base for exploring the rest of the country.  With Auckland a mere four hours drive and the Bay of Plenty and Rotorua just over hour away, Lake Taupo is an action packed holiday destination in its own right, although on 30^th November you may be safer in the lake than on its banks!

Travelling throughout New Zealand is easy and enjoyable, and when you combine the friendly locals with cheap car hire and fantastic ferry connections between the north and south islands, it is easy to understand why this pretty country remains one of the most popular destinations for those who appreciate the freedom of a self-drive holiday.

So while I am going to have to work for it, if the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge means I will get to return to New Zealand – I have to say, bring on the Lycra cycle shorts!