Chip in and vote to decide which fish is city's favourite

Marc Spijkerbosch.

Rotorua locals are being encouraged to get out and vote - for their favourite fish.

Rotorua District Council community arts officer Marc Spijkerbosch is encouraging locals to get outside and enjoy the warm spring weather - and while they're at it check out the funky fish around the central business district on display as part of the council's Fish Out of Water competition.

The annual fish decorating competition involves 13 1m-long fibreglass fish which have been given an artistic treatment by local residents.

The creations form a "fish trail" through the inner city and people can vote for their favourite.

Mr Spijkerbosch said the fish had been really well received by locals and visitors, after they went on display last week.

"I've had amazing feedback from the retailers where the fish have been placed.

"They say the fish have really made quite an impact on business.

"Quite a few people have voted already and due to the popularity of this season's competition we're going to extend the closing date for voting until November 18," he said.

The People's Choice Award winner will receive a prize and a place in the Fish Hall-of-Fame for permanent display within the city.

The painted fish and voting forms are at Penney's Souvenirs, Sole Outlet, City Focus, Monkey Kids, McLeod's Booksellers, Me and Moo Moo, Visitor Information Centre & i-SITE, Arts Village, Art Expo Gallery, Library Cafe, Hamill's and Absokiwilutely.