Kidz Need Dadz fishing and fun day a success

Craig Hika and son Jordan, who turned 5 on Saturday, celebrate the occasion at the Kidz Need Dadz fishing and fun day. Photo/Andrew Warner

Jordan Hika and his dad Craig were among the more than 100 families who took part in the Kidz Need Dadz fishing and fun day on Saturday.

Taking part in the competition down at The Strand was an extra special occasion as it was also the Otumoetai youngster's fifth birthday.

Craig Hika said it had been a special bonding time for both.

"We did catch quite a good fish beforehand and hooked up a shag during the competition but it didn't matter that Jordan didn't catch a winning fish because spending quality time together was what it was all about.

"It was what Jordan wanted to do on his birthday. He really enjoyed it and couldn't stop talking about the day to his sisters and mother when we got home."

At least 146 children and their parents took part in the event.

A total of 66 fish were measured, and the girl's winner of the longest fish category was Addison Conlon with her 260mm catch. The boys' winner was Jackson Aplin with a 265mm fish.

Both won fishing rods and scored a ride around the harbour on the Tauranga Coastguard boat.

Most of the fish caught were released back into the harbour.

Kidz Need Dadz trust manager Lianne Mather said the inaugural event was aimed at strengthening parent and child relationships.

"We're absolutely delighted with the response. It was really encouraging to see how people got so involved with teaching their child or children new skills and, in some cases, parents and children were learning to fish together.

"That included one parent who arrived early and stayed right to the end.

"She had spent time the day before learning how to tie fishing tackle knots so she could share that skill with her child."