The Western Bay of Plenty's first "My Dog's Got Talent" competition is about to take place.
The canine talent quest would feature in the third annual Doggy Day Out in Katikati on Saturday.
Hundreds of dogs with families in tow were expected to attend the Western Bay of Plenty District Council event where talented pooches would perform for up to five minutes. There would be prizes for first, second and third.
Animal services officer Betty Hall said the council tried to do something "a little different" at each Doggy Day Out - a council fun day for dogs and their owners.
"Last year we had a world-renowned dog trainer teach people tricks and answer questions. This year we have the 'My Dog's Got Talent'," she said.
"Talent shows are all over our televisions now, so we thought why not make a dog version? We hope it's something fun, easy-going and pressure-free for everyone to enjoy. This really is an amateur talent show, so anything goes. It's all about celebrating our love for man's best friend and having a good time."
The day was pitched as a "tonne of fun" for humans and dogs and would include best-dressed competitions, dog paddling pools, market stalls, food trucks, dog groomers, agility displays and more.
Ms Hall is "mum" to council "spokesdog" Alfie, who is well known for fronting community dog events and policies. Alfie would possibly display a trick or two himself on the day.
Ms Hall said the council would be taking "My Dog's Got Talent" registrations on the day, allowing time for plenty of fun training attempts before then.
"We're hopeful this one will be a crowd favourite ... it's not a high-end competition but something anyone can have a go at."
Ms Hall said such events helped show the community the council was not just "the stick" when it came to animal services.
"Our team is passionate about dogs and works really hard to help owners, and communities at large, to have really positive relationships with their dogs."
Organiser Alison Curtis said the event had been popular in the past. "We'd also love to talk to anyone interested in becoming a dog fosterer for our adoption dogs while they wait for their new home," she said.
-People can register their dog for the talent show by emailing Carolyn.berben@ westernbay.govt.nz.
More information is available on the council's website or the Doggy Day Out event on Facebook.