Don't miss Onetangi Beach races at Waiheke

On your mark: Get set for a great day at the Onetangi Beach races.

From City Scene, published on 1 February, 2009.

For nearly 100 years the Onetangi Beach races have been taking place and this coming Waitangi weekend will see the return of the annual event.

With thousands expected to turn up on Sunday, 8 February, 10am - 4pm, the Onetangi Beach Races and Family Fun Day have activities for the whole family.

Races are not the only attraction - there are competitions for creating sandcastles (for the kids) and sandsculpting (for the adults); tug-o-war; a "big dig"; a children's golf challenge - plus much more.

With Auckland City Council lending a hand, the event also hopes to be a "zero-waste" day, with more than 30 volunteers helping visitors recycle their rubbish.

Ferries depart from downtown Auckland and Half Moon Bay to Waiheke, with buses available on Waiheke to get to the races.