There will be squeals of excitement and delight this weekend as Rotorua youngsters dig furiously in the sand, unearthing special sticks to earn prizes.
The Hits Rotorua Beach Dig is back again this year and is a free event for children aged 3 to 13.
The Hits Rotorua is teamingup with McDonald's Rotorua to bring the event to Hannahs Bay Reserve on Sunday.
Every little digger is guaranteed a prize, thanks to McDonald's Rotorua and Reduced To Clear.
Children race to find their stick at last year's The Hits Rotorua Beach Dig event. Photo / File
Registration open at 9.30am and the dig starts at 10.30am. This year children need to be registered and it is limited to the first 400 children.
The Hits Rotorua presenter Paul Hickey says Beach Dig is one of the most satisfying events The Hits Rotorua puts on, because it is all about the children and is a positive and feel-good vibe.
"It is great to have the support of some amazing sponsors as well who also recognise what a great day it is for the tamariki of Rotorua.
"As a parent there is nothing better than seeing your child smiling and happy, so what better reason do you need to be there?"
The Hits Rotorua brand engagement co-ordinator Bryce Morris says The Hits Rotorua Beach Dig with McDonalds Rotorua is a fun morning out and hundreds of numbered sticks will be buried in the sand.
He says each stick corresponds to a numbered prize bag with great prizes from local businesses like Reduced to Clear, Diversion Maze Park, Reading Cinemas, Rotorua Aquatic Centre, Rotorua Duck Tours and more.
"This year we also have two bikes to giveaway thanks to The Warehouse."
He says one bike will be given away to a V.I.D (Very Important Digger).
"Paul has been taking entries all week on his show and the first person to find the bike stick will win.
"We are drawing the winner of the second bike on Monday morning at 7.55am. Paul will read out some stick numbers and if your number is read you need to call him on (07) 348 1975.
Paul Hickey (left) and Bryce Morris from The Hits at Hannah's Bay with some of the Beach Dig goodies. Photo / Ben Fraser
Bryce is looking forward to seeing everyone having fun at the event.
"The Hits Beach dig is all about having a go, as every little digger will win a prize.
"I encourage kids and families to come because it is a fun morning in the fresh air, and it is one of the last times to go to the beach before winter."
The details - What: The Hits Rotorua Beach Dig 2019 - When: Sunday, registrations open 9.30am, the dig is at 10.30am, and prizegiving about 11.15am - Where: Hannahs Bay Reserve - Cost: Free
