IM NZ is a great race, if not for the airfare I would go back next yr!
Sign up is open now (opened last week, got the email, was tempted for 10seconds but card credit bill is sitting in front of me) It's their anniversary yr next yr so might want to sign up earlier this yr. Last yr i entered in august and it was not full till late Jan (I think) One thing to bear in mind is the number of visitiors from the US, this yr there were over 270, third only to NZ and Aus participants. I suspect there will be more heading over (baring war problems) as the exchange rate and the event is so favourable. Very different atmosphere than an NA IM race, much more laid back.
Lots of places to stay, we rented a house that could have accomodated 6, but as usual when it came down to it only me and the Wife went over for 75 NZ $ a night, about 35$ US. It was just off Lake Terrace and right on the swim turn around so 1500m from the start. Motels were going for $60-70 NZ. Check the internet for estate agents, that is where we found the house.
Another thing is car hire, if you can track down a local company and book inadvance (wagon or mini van) its a hell of a lot cheaper than the multinationals like Herts. We got a 99 Nissan wagon with insurance form 36 NZ$ a day.
If you live on the west coast its an easy 12 hr flight from LA and another 3.5 hr drive to Taupo from Auckland. Was the easiet trip we have ever made (with bike box etc)
IF you want more advice email me at
tribuddhatri@yahoo.com or get in touch with CLM and Wy (latter can be found over at Gordo's forum).
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Simple Simon
Where's the Fried Chicken??