The Grand Tavern Hunting & Fishing Club will be holding its annual open hunting and fishing competition for the 31st year in a row.

The three-day competition, which draws hunters and anglers from all over the North Island, will be held on May 12-14.

Secretary Elaine Hamilton said the club was formed in 1985 as the Grand Tavern Hunting Club and renamed in 1993.

The open section includes heaviest snapper, trout, boar and deer. The junior section, for those under 16 and still at school, has the option of hares, rabbits, possums or eels.

Due to the declining number of eels, all live eels brought in would be released, she said.

There will be family entertainment, including a pig-carrying competition, spot prizes, food and refreshments.

Prizes include tyres to the value of $1000, chainsaws, a rifle, dog boxes, GPS, Iceytec bins, and a Kayak and life jacket.

All juniors registering on May 14 will receive a free t-shirt.

Hunting and fishing can start from 1am May 12 but competitors must be back at the Grand Tavern between 1pm and 4pm on May 14 for weigh in.

All excess funds from this competition are given back to the community.

Last year the club donated money to the Te Aroha Community Hospital, BMX Club and Air Ambulance. 

Entry forms are available from the Grand Tavern Te Aroha.

More information: 027 207 7898 or email: ejhamilton@xtra.co.nz.