Ōpōtiki locals and visitors to the region can look forward to a sizzling summer of events in Ōpōtiki this year.

Ōpōtiki’s isite manager, Joseph Hayes said the popular summer events calendar included some regular favourites and a few newish events that had started to grow in popularity.

“The events team have been working so hard to bring a wide range of events to Ōpōtiki communities this holiday period. There are the ever-popular favourites like the O-mazing race and outdoor movie night. Partner organisations are putting on some big events this year like fishing and golf competitions and the Ōpōtiki Rodeo.

“For the second year running, plenty of art and entertainment comes together for the growing Gourmet Canvas event,” he said.

“Our beach digs are always so much fun and huge crowds descend on our sunny beaches either in Waiotahe or up in Te Kaha.

“This year in Ōpōtiki, we are combining the beach dig and race the tide, and we are adding some fun new events like sandcastle sculpting and beach races so people can make a day of it with heaps of activities for the whole whānau.

“Of course, we also have the big one – the Ōpōtiki Lantern Festival which this year features headline artists Sons of Zion, Ladi6 and Hori Shaw plus a great lineup of of local and out-of-town talent. Tickets are available now online at eventfina.co.nz.

“So, keep an eye out for the posters and ads that have all the information about events, time and places. It’s all on our website as well. We can’t wait to see you there,” Mr Hayes said.