Paddling pooches battle for glory

Max, a huntaway-mastiff possibly crossed with a fish and owned by Tony Parfoot of Okiato, is a regular winner in Opua's dog swimming races.

Is your pet a champion dog-paddler? If so, it could win prizes and glory in tomorrow's dog swimming races at Opua.

The Opua Regatta starts with a fishing contest on the wharf at 10am followed by raft races and swimming races for dogs and humans from 11am.

Other attractions will include a petting zoo, pony rides, games and stalls. Opua Hall will host its regular market.

The regatta is the main fundraiser of the year for Opua School.

Last year's champs were Jessie, a miniature fox terrier owned by Brad Batterton, and Stefi, a Hungarian Vizsla-cross, owned by Hamish Anderson.