Low cloud and light rain hung over Port Ōhope Wharf on Saturday morning, but families continued to arrive with fishing rods, bait buckets and determined young anglers in tow.

Despite a forecast of passing showers, children and their parents travelled from across the Bay of Plenty, Waikato and as far as New Plymouth to take part in the inaugural Little Fishers event.

By late morning, rain jackets were zipped and hoods pulled tight as gumboots tapped against wet timber and the wharf filled with voices and movement.

Event organiser Leilana Ogle, owner of Waffle Clubb and a member of the Wharfside Collective, said the turnout exceeded expectations.

“We were really pleased with how many families came along, especially given the weather,” she said.

Throughout the day, children landed kahawai, snapper and trevally, while parents and volunteers helped untangle lines, rebait hooks and steady small hands. For many participants, it was their first experience fishing in an organised event.

Rather than focusing on competition, the day was built around a catch-and-release format and a game called Ika Bingo. Participants were encouraged to identify species, practise safe handling techniques and learn more about marine life in Ōhiwa Harbour.

“It’s about helping kids understand what’s here and how to look after it,” Mrs Ogle said.

The event was organised by the Wharfside Collective, a group of businesses operating at Port Ōhope Wharf during the summer months. Members include Waffle Clubb, Hinemoana Tio Ōhiwa, Washington Street Filipino Fusion, Harbourview Berries, OZ Dogs, Takutai Adventures and the Mata Beer pop-up.

“The council has provided this awesome facility, and we wanted to create something local families could enjoy together and feel proud of,” Mrs Ogle said.

Volunteers were stationed along the wharf throughout the day to offer guidance and ensure safety, while families shared bait, equipment and advice, creating a relaxed and supportive atmosphere.

One young angler stood out after landing a kahawai and two large snapper, earning top fisher honours. Organisers, however, emphasised that participation, learning and enjoyment were the real focus of the day.

By mid-afternoon, the rain eased and patches of blue sky appeared. Rods were packed away and families gathered inside Wharfside to share in prize-giving before heading home.

The event was made possible through the support of a wide range of local and regional businesses, including Ōhope Pharmacy, Ōhope Medical, Redwoods Treewalk, Skyline Rotorua, ZORB Rotorua, Lazer Photos and Cameras, Velocity Valley, Te Puia, Te Pā Tū, Pohutukawa Plumbing, White Pointer Boats, Cadera, Gateway Funeral Services, Whaitaki Limited, Ake Accountants, Aquarius Charters, Peppers Building Supplies, Black Magic, Ōhope Four Square, Ice Man Whakatāne, Harbourview Berries, Washington Street Filipino Eats, and Hunting and Fishing Whakatāne.