Favourite place competition winner says Taupo is paradise

MEDIA RELEASE

9 February 2010

The winner of Taupo District Council’s recent ‘Favourite Place’ competition says he loves everything about living in Taupo.

Mr Anthony Swainson has been living in Taupo for the last 40 years, and says it is quite simply ‘paradise’. “It’s the people, the fishing, the environment, it’s just everything. What more could you ask for?”

The competition asked for people to nominate their favourite Taupo district park, reserve, or open space, giving reason for their choice.  The nominations will go towards a new booklet promoting the top ten “Favourite Places” in the district, targeted at both locals and tourists.

Parks and Open Spaces Manager John Ridd says we are lucky to have so many wonderful open spaces. “We really have some of the nicest parks and reserves here in Taupo, so this booklet is designed to remind locals of them, as much as letting visitors know. I think we all take it for granted at times, but its great to see these places full of people enjoying them.”

Mr Swainson, who won two tickets for the Taupo Float Plane, nominated the view from Mapara Road, looking towards Whakaipo Bay and the bush walk from there that opens up into a little beach for his favourite place. He stated in his entry: “Shade and the occasional glimpse of the clear sparkling waters will be with you on a walk of half-an-hour or so to the end of the track where a secret beach opens out to views of the head of the bay.”

The Favourite Place booklet is expected to hit the shelves of shops, backpackers, and motels in coming months.

Favourite Places competition winner Anthony Swainson (centre) receiving his prize from project coordinator Ashleigh Stephens, and Parks & Open Spaces Manager John Ridd.

Contact:
John Ridd
Parks and Open Spaces Manager
Taupo District Council
Ph 07 376 0653