Photos below illustrate Turangi’s version of “Round the Bays” attracted thousands – far too many to count – as most were still out sweating their way around the loop on the Tongariro River Trail.

Wonderful to see so many families enjoying the most beautiful natural 13 km riverside loop trail in NZ.

The parking was an issue for the biggest crowd ever seen on Taupahi Reserve. Compare the normal street scene below. There are often more horses than cars.

No doubt Toepaw Council will appoint consultants to determine whether to introduce parking meters for next year…

TRM had previously promoted the river run following the NZ Herald article below:

Taupo and Tūrangi walkers and runners take on Tongariro River Trail

Waikato Herald

7 Mar, 2024

Sarah Tomlinson (left) loves participating in running events with her husband Phil and children Matthew and Ivy. (That family photo looks more like Lake Rotopounamu than the Tongariro River)

Walkers and runners already know exercise is good for the soul, and many get an extra boost from moving in beautiful surroundings.

Locals in Tūrangi also know that it doesn’t get much more beautiful than the Tongariro River Trail, making it a natural choice for the first event in the Aramex Kiwi Walk and Run series, which kicks off this weekend.

The March 9 event will see walkers and runners take to the trail for 5km, 11km and 14.5km events, with many taking part as groups of families and friends.

For some, outdoor exercise goes beyond being a fun activity to become an important lifeline against the harder parts of life.