A long shot became a reality when a Taupō teenager was one of two selected to represent New Zealand in Equestrian.

Three tourists freedom travelling the country thought their companion had turned back to the carpark when they became separated tramping the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

Dan Stephens-Kingi got sick of seeing plastic shampoo bottles in the recycling each week. 

So he sought his own solution.

A strong female line up is among the talent secured for the seventh annual Graffiato: Taupo Street Art Festival to be held in Taupo's town centre this Labour Weekend.