This year's 36th running of the Contact Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge will burst into life around the picturesque circuit tomorrow and includes something all Kiwis love - the classic transtasman sporting rivalry.
The cream of New Zealand's cycling talent will once again take on the annual pilgrimage to Taupo, including recent Tour Of Southland winner, Mike Northey, who will be hoping to continue his winning form against more than 70 entrants in the 160km Men's Classic Race.
Others to feature in the race include last year's winner, Michael Torckler, and recent Olympic bronze medallist, Aaron Gate.
"I have been coming to the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge since I was about 13-years-old with family and friends," said Northey.
"Its a great event and always a fun weekend. I have my teammate Matt Cronshaw out from the UK at the moment, and he will be racing with me.