Covering a perimeter of approximately 193 kilometres, Lake Taupo is a fresh water playground for thousands of people and is home to many events.
One such annual event, popular with kayakers and rowers from around New Zealand and abroad, is the Trans Taupo event.
Open to teams or individuals with Surf Ski's, Sea Kayaks, Ocean Rowers and/or Waka Ama.
There are specific rules and conditions for participants to abide by and it is essential that you are confident with paddling open water - in all possible weather conditions.
Whether you intend to participate in this event or watch from the sidelines, you will also need to consider booking into a motel in Taupo, NZ.
Fortunately, there are dozens of accommodation options such as motels in Taupo to check out when planning your visit for the Trans Taupo event.
If participating in the race, it will be of importance to you to be near the lake.
There are plenty of lakeside motels in Taupo, and even more within a short walking distance if you prefer to stay off the main road - this can be especially good for a quiet night's sleep before the big race.
Being the biggest lake in New Zealand makes Lake Taupo ideal for all kinds of water-based recreational and sporting events.
The Trans Taupo event kicks off at 8am with the fastest paddlers completing the course in 4 hours.
There is an age restriction of 18 years and over, unless parental consent is given.
Entry fees vary depending on the style of craft and number of people per team.
It is important to have registered for the race in advance, as there is a late entry fee and don't rely on entering on the day - as no new entries will be accepted.
The full course is 44km and consists of four legs.
Leg one is 18km from Tokaanu Bay to Mission Bay Reserve, leg two is 7km from Mission bay to Hatepe Point, leg three is 14km from Hatepe Point to Wharewaka Point, with the final leg being only 5km from Wharewaka Point to the finish in front of the Taupo Yacht Club in Taupo.
If entering a team, you will be able to match the most suited paddlers to each leg of the race based on the time and energy that will be required.
Keep an eye on the official race information online and be sure to get your entry in early - good luck!