The annual Wairakei Estate Ironkidz triathlon took place in February 2022. It was an eagerly-anticipated return after the event was cancelled last year in the wake of Covid. 

‍

With Covid-related challenges still present this year, we were thrilled to see the event able to go ahead thanks to some hard work and quick thinking to create a virtual programme in place of an in-person event. 

‍

The triathlon traditionally sees school kids swim, bike and run around a course by Lake Taupō. For the virtual event, kids and families got creative to complete a route in their neighbourhood or favourite place — uploading their results online and going in the draw to win spot prizes. 

‍

It was encouraging to see just over 300 children from Auckland to Palmerston North take part in this year’s event, with almost half the participants first-timers. 

‍

The goal of Wairakei Estate Ironkidz is simple — to encourage kids to try their best and give it a go. This was truer than ever this year, with all the participants going the extra mile to celebrate the event.