Ōpōtiki Lions are hoping for another great turnout at their 23rd annual Polar Swim on Sunday morning.

The mid-winter swim at Waiotahe Beach has become a staple on many calendars and organiser Mick Sauer said it was always a great display of community spirit.

Mr Sauer said although “swim” was in the name, the event was often more of a dash to the water and then back out as quickly as possible.

The start is traditionally signalled by the firing of a replica cannon, with the challenge being to stay in the water until it is fired a second time.

It appears the tide will be out for this year’s plunge.

Mr Sauer said 68 swimmers participated last year. Local groups who register five or more participants will be placed in a prize pool.

As has become tradition, the polar swim will be followed by a beach dig for kids.

Mr Sauer said the dig had taken on a life of its own and this year it would be bigger than ever.

The fun starts with registration at Ōpōtiki Surf Life Saving Club on Waiotahe Beach at 9am on Sunday.