Big dig fun despite damp conditions (+video)

Wet weather didn't stop families heading to the beach to have a good dig around yesterday.

While some may have been wearing raincoats instead of summer attire, hundreds of people still turned out to this year's The Hits Easter Beach Dig.

The event, held at Hannahs Bay Park yesterday, involved children digging in the sand to uncover sticks so they could win a prize.

Among them was Dan Parkman who took three of his children to the event.

Only Sam, 2, found a stick but William, 5, and Rose, 6, received a chocolate egg, water bottle and free burger each, he said.

He said Sam did a runner with his stick and didn't go up to get a prize, but was now the very proud owner of a red stick.

He said the event was quite busy with lots of other families and children there.

The Hits brand engagement manager Kat Hicks said there were only 40 sticks unclaimed out of 400.

"They were excited, energetic and enthusiastic," she said.

The rain did not seem to hinder anyone and people came in their raincoats, Ms Hicks said.

Every child got a prize from McDonald's and Reduced to Clear Rotorua, she said.

The beach dig has been held for more than five years, and this year's event was "bigger and better" compared to the last with lots of new faces.