Hairy Maclary and friends look-a-likes

The search is on for four-legged look alikes of the wily but lovable Hairy Maclary and his famous gang of canine friends.

There are six entry categories for dog lovers: Hairy Maclary (from Donaldson's Dairy), Hercules Morse (as big as a horse), Muffin McLay (like a bundle of hay), Bottomley Potts (all covered in spots), Bitzer Maloney (all skinny and boney) and Schnitzel von Krumm (with a very low tum).

Feline pet owners can also be in with a chance to win if they have a Slinky Malinky or Scarface Claw lingering at home. And in a fun ninth category, the winning Zachary Quack is rumoured to be up for a new paddling pool and loaf of bread.

"The contest is a wonderful way to engage the whole community with the Hairy Maclary and Friends Tauranga Waterfront Sculpture Project, to raise public awareness and encourage fundraising support for this national treasure," said Creative Tauranga CEO, Tracey Rudduck-Gudsell.

At the recent Tauranga Waterfront opening, Creative Tauranga received an overwhelming response to the look alike contest, with over 25 pre-entries walking up on the day with an adorable array of friendly, four-legged friends.

"We were amazed at the number of Hairy Maclary's in our community. We're very keen to find the real one - and judges will be taking into account both looks and personality. We've had enquiries from as far away as Whangarei and the Manawatu, said Ms Rudduck-Gudsell.

The Great Hairy Maclary and Friends Look Alike Contest is sponsored by MORE FM and Tauranga Vets.