Upcoming events: It’s a Tri’ fest
Tri-Sport Taupō Junior Josie Murphy wins the 2025 Youth Triathlon last year. Photo: Scottie T Photography
The Seven Oaks Kinloch Triathlon Festival is on the weekend of February 14-15, on the shores of Lake Taupō at Kinloch village. There are eight different events, bringing in more than 300 competitors and their supporters.
Volunteers from Tri-Sport Taupō have been working for months behind the scenes to ensure a successful event.
The Kinloch Triathlon Festival is the oldest running triathlon in the country, beating Ironman NZ by a month back in 1984.
Across the Lake swim
Lake Taupo Rotary’s Across the Lake Swim is on Saturday, February 28.
This iconic 4.2km swim from Acacia Bay North to 3 Mile Bay boat ramp has been running for 62 years.
For those preferring a shorter swim, 1km or 2km swims are offered from 3 Mile Bay
out and around marker buoys and back to the finish at the Boat Ramp.
For further information and to register your entry visit our website www.acrossthelakeswim.co.nz
Other events
Until March 23: Taupō Museum has partnered with Te Papa and the Natural Hazards Commission Toka Tū Ake to bring Rūaumoko: Restless Land. Rūaumoko is an interactive touring exhibition that shines a spotlight on Aotearoa’s natural hazards and the importance of being prepared. Blending cutting edge science with mātauranga Māori, it explores the powerful natural forces that continuously shape our country. Visitors will encounter popular features such as the Quake Nation interactive, tectonic plate models, volcanic rock samples and the much‑loved shake table.
February 5: The Taupō Scottish Country Dance Group meets every Thursday at St Pauls Uniting Church from 1.45–3.45pm. First session free, then $5. Meet people, maintain fitness, dance to enjoy Scottish music. Contact Margaret on greenmargaret26@gmail.com or 021 142 7590.
February 5: The Dinner at the Lake is on Thursdays, 4.30-8.30pm, until February 12, with a variety of food options, live local entertainment and a licensed bar.
February 8: Do you love to sing? The AA65 choir is looking for you. If you can spare the time for weekly practice and are fit enough to stay on your feet to sing for 30-minute concerts, please join us at Rotary House on Sunday, 4-5pm.
February 10: U3A will meet at Rotary House, Story Place, 10am. This month's meeting features a talk on Tauhara by Jeffrey Addison, with photos of early Taupō. New members welcome. Ph 021 1656193
February 14: Romance is in the air on Saturday, February 14 for the Valentine’s Lock & Key Mix & Mingle Singles Party for those 35+. The Valentine’s event brings singles together with a fun, interactive twist. 7pm, Cobb & Co, $25 (includes first drink - excluding cocktails). To register for the event, email admin@mixandmingle.nz, or visit the mixandmingle.nz website for more details.
February 20-22: Kuratau School Horse Trek. Email kurataufundraising@gmail.com for more info.
Now until June 30: The Tagged Trout Treasure Hunt involves 10 tagged trout released north, south, east, west and at the reef with each one caught earning a $500 cash prize. Join Taupō Fishing Club to enter ($40 membership) Anglers must hold a DOC Taupō District fishing licence. Email: taupofc@gmail.com or visit www.taupofishingclub.co.nz
February 8: Ukulele Jamming/Strummers is on the first Sunday of each month at the Cossie Club, 2-4pm. Join us for a fun time singing music from the 60's, 70's and 80's.
Until February 15: Lava Glass hosts Artful Minds, an inspiring group exhibition showcasing the work of emerging and professional artists and makers from Taupō.
February 4: Taupō Choral Society is looking for new members. A special concert will be held in November 2026 for our 50th Jubilee, and there are concerts in March and July. Rehearsals begin February 4, 7.15pm at St Pauls Church on Rifle Range Road. You are welcome to come along and see how it all works. Any queries, please find us on Facebook. We would also love past members to participate in the Jubilee Concert.
Send details of your event to news@tauponews.co.nz for a free listing in our weekly What’s On section. Publication is dependent on space. Send a brief summary of 50 words, a photo if you have one and a longer summary in case we have room.