McLaren's photo comp to show off Bay's best

McLaren Falls. Photo/Supplied

Tourism Bay of Plenty is hosting a social media photo competition to celebrate the release of Disney's live-action feature film Pete's Dragon.

The film which opened in cinemas last week, featured McLaren Falls as a lush riverside backdrop to Pete and Elliot the dragon's adventure.

Tourism Bay of Plenty wanted to see photos of McLaren Falls on Facebook and Instagram to celebrate.

Assistant marketing and communications manager Abby Parkin said this was a chance for residents and visitors to go beyond the beach this spring and showcase our slice of paradise.

"We're so lucky to live in a place where you're only a 15 minute drive away from immersing yourself in nature. McLaren Falls has something for everyone - for the family looking for an easy stroll, to water sport enthusiasts and young adventure seekers.

"There's no denying we're a coastal paradise, but we'd love to see travellers and residents of all ages exploring our equally stunning local parks - particularly one that is now part of cinematic history."

While filming commenced in the Bay, the region played host to an A-list cast, including Robert Redford, Bryce Dallas Howard and New Zealand's own Karl Urban.

Bryce Dallas Howard was a local in the "iconically beautiful" Mount Maunganui during her stay.

"In New Zealand, I had the chance to travel around quite a bit and I lived in a place called Mount Maunganui, which is kind of like a beach town," she said at a recent press event.

"It was so beautiful. I loved living [there] - my kids went to school there and everything."

To enter the Disney's Pete's Dragon McLaren Falls photo competition, post your photos on Instagram.

Use both hashtags #petesdragon and #bayofplenty, or share on the Tourism Bay of Plenty Facebook page: www.facebook.com/bayofplentytourism

Entries close on October 9.

The winners would be announced on social media and would each receive a gift pack.