Bike Taupō's Kaupapa - The 5 T's: Trails, Traps, Trees, Tamariki, and Transport
Bike Taupō is more than just a group of passionate cyclists.
At the heart of our kaupapa (purpose) is a vision to make cycling accessible, enjoyable, and safe for everyone and, where we can, enhance the awesome environment of our rohe.
To better encapsulate our core operations, we developed the 5 T's: Trails, Traps, Trees, Tamariki, and Transport.
These five pillars don't function in isolation; rather, they are interconnect and strengthen one another, creating a comprehensive framework that supports a vibrant cycling culture and trail network.
1. Trails
Bike Taupō is known for its work in developing and maintaining over 200kms of trails in the region. From the Craters Mountain Bike Park to the Great Rides around Lake Taupō, these trails aren't just for sport and recreation; they are an essential part of Taupō’s tourism and lifestyle. Trails connect people to nature, help build community, and encourage sustainable modes of transport. The ongoing maintenance, development, and enhancement of these trails is at the forefront of what we do.
Key Focus:
Sustainability: Ensuring that trails are built sustainably, respecting the environment around them.
Accessibility: Catering to a range of skill levels, from beginner family trails to longer wilderness rides.
Engagement: Encouraging both locals and tourists to explore Taupō by bike, fostering a love for the outdoors and Our Place..
2. Traps
Protecting and enhancing the environment is a big part of what we do. The traps aspect refers to our commitment to controlling pests that threaten native flora and fauna. With the rise of invasive species in New Zealand, the balance of ecosystems has been severely impacted. By running an extensive trap network along our trails, we are helping to protect the native wildlife, ensuring that the environment remains a thriving space for both people and the creatures that call it home.
Key Focus:
Conservation: Supporting the health of local biodiversity by reducing the presence of predators like rats, stoats, and possums.
Sustainability: Making sure the impact of trails and human activity on the ecosystem is as low as possible.
Education: Raising awareness among trail users about the importance of pest control and how it contributes to protecting the natural beauty of Taupō.
3. Trees
A healthy environment and thriving cycling community go hand in hand. Trees symbolise our commitment to reforestation and environmental stewardship. As we develop trails, we also take responsibility for the care of the surrounding environment by planting trees and preserving and restoring native bush. Trees not only enhance the beauty of the trails but also protect them as well contributing to offsetting our carbon footprints.
Key Focus:
Reforestation: Planting native trees to restore ecosystems disrupted by development and invasive species.
Climate Impact: Mitigating climate change by promoting carbon sequestration through tree planting.
Aesthetics: Maintaining the natural beauty of the Taupō landscape, providing shade and shelter for riders, and creating a lush environment to enjoy.
4. Tamariki
The future of cycling lies with the next generation, and Tamariki (children) are a critical focus for Bike Taupō. By encouraging a love of cycling early, we aim to cultivate a generation that views biking as both a practical form of transport and a gateway to exploring the outdoors. From organising a fun and safe kids cycling program, Kids Bike taupo, to develop skill, (including first time pedallers) Bike Taupō is dedicated to ensuring that cycling is an integral part of the childhood experience in Taupō.
Key Focus:
Education: Providing opportunities for Tamariki to learn bike safety, skills, and the environmental importance of cycling through our Kids Bike Taupo programme.
Inclusion: Ensuring that all children, regardless of their background, have access to bikes and safe spaces to ride.
Community Building: Creating events that bring children and their families together around biking, promoting healthy lifestyles and environmental awareness.
5. Transport
Transport highlights Bike Taupō’s advocacy for cycling as an integral part of everyday transportation. By working with local government and businesses, Bike Taupō pushes for better cycling infrastructure, more bike-friendly policies, and a shift toward sustainable, non-motorized transport options. Whether it’s advocating for more bike lanes, actively improving safety measures for cyclists, or promoting bike-share programs, the Transport pillar emphasises cycling as a viable alternative to cars.
Key Focus:
Infrastructure: Advocating for more bike lanes, bike parking, and safer cycling routes throughout the Taupō region.
Sustainability: Promoting cycling as an eco-friendly alternative to driving, reducing carbon emissions and traffic congestion.
Integration: Making cycling a natural part of daily life in Taupō, from commuting to school and work to running everyday errands.
Bike Taupō’s 5 T's are not separate workstreams but interconnected pillars that support our overall vision: getting more people on bikes while preserving the natural environment. By focusing on Trails, we create spaces for people to ride. Through Traps and Trees, we protect the ecosystems that make these spaces beautiful. By investing in Tamariki, we secure the future of cycling, and through Transport, we ensure that biking remains a practical and sustainable choice for everyone.
Bike Taupō’s holistic approach means that each "T" reinforces the others, collectively building a thriving cycling community that values both people and place. Whether you're an avid mountain biker, a commuter, or a family looking for a fun outdoor activity, Bike Taupō is dedicated to creating a better cycling experience for all while caring for the land that makes it possible.
Kia ora! Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou. Hono mai ki a mātou 🌿🚴♂️