Contestants in the first of the major Bay of Islands' midwinter events look likely to be covered in mud - in fact, it is essential.
The second annual Bay of Islands Beast Mud Run will cover 7km on rolling farmland near Haruru Falls on July 9. Entries at 800 this year are well up on last year's inaugural event and are now closed. Buses to the event will be provided for both runners and spectators from the Maritime Building in Paihia.
This year, Business Paihia has introduced a Community Street Party in Williams Rd following the Mud Run. Chairman Craig Johnston said the cross-country mud run attracted hundreds of visitors to the Bay of Islands at a time of year when business was usually slow for accommodation providers.
"Many people who take part in the two-day event leave the area when the event is over. We would like them to come on Friday night and stay on through Saturday night.
"Queenstown has its Winter Festival, which is very successful, and it's a lot colder in Queenstown than it is here."