Te Hapori Ora – The Village of Wellbeing
Taupō’s major events often have spin-offs that extend far beyond the excitement of the big day itself. Taupō & Tūrangi News profiles the Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge and some of the community groups that benefit. This week we take a look at Te Hapori Ora in the third of a five-part series.
Eight members of Te Hapori Ora – The Village of Wellbeing – celebrate after completing the Great Wall of China Adventure Marathon earlier this year.
From its first event, supporting the Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge as a volunteer group has become something meaningful for Te Hapori Ora, says Brendon (Hākuwai) Eriksen-Downs, chief executive of Te Hapori Ora - The Village of Wellbeing.
“Not just as a fundraising opportunity, but as a way to bring our team and community together in support of a great event.”
Te Hapori Ora – The Village of Wellbeing is a community-led wellbeing organisation based in Tūwharetoa.
It delivers educational wellness wānanga, suicide prevention and intervention services, and a range of initiatives that support the health, development, and resilience of individuals and whānau. From group fitness and youth mentoring to adventure-based initiatives and community workshops, the focus is on empowering people with practical tools, knowledge, and fresh perspectives — assisting them to thrive in every aspect of life.
Each year, Te Hapori Ora typically provides about six to 12 volunteers for the cycle challenge, Ericksen-Downs says, depending on the event’s needs, with additional support from their whānau.
“Our team has helped in a variety of roles — including marshalling, aid station support, traffic management, and general event duties. No matter where we’re placed, we show up with energy and a willingness to contribute.”
The group of volunteers – Influence Crew Tūwharetoa – really enjoys the buzz of the event day, he says.
“It’s a chance to connect, work as a team, meet new people, and give back in a positive way. There’s always good banter, team spirit, and a strong sense of achievement from being part of something bigger than ourselves.”
Funds raised through the volunteering efforts go directly toward supporting Te Hapori Ora’s community wellbeing initiative, Influence Crew Tūwharetoa.
“This kaupapa uses adventure-based marathons in iconic global locations as a powerful platform for personal growth, leadership development, and building resilience. It challenges individuals to push beyond their limits, grow in confidence, and bring those lessons home to uplift their whānau and wider community.
“What makes this initiative unique is that it is entirely self-funded by the volunteers themselves — a conscious design that promotes self-belief, self-sufficiency, and the conviction that with purpose and commitment, we can achieve whatever we set our minds to.”
The Cycle Challenge is on November 29. Entry information can be found at: