The fifth Heads2Harbour will be held on Saturday.

Continuing the momentum after a very successful national sprint championships for the Whakatāne waka ama paddling community, race organiser Bevan Roozendaal expects anywhere between 60 and 100 participants.

The event brings together athletic paddlers from all over New Zealand to compete in a challenging ocean race along the coast of Whakatāne and Ōhope.

The race covers 21 kilometres and, depending which way the wind is blowing, it will start at The Heads and finish at Ōhope harbour, or in the opposite direction.

The race is open to waka ama paddlers as well as surf ski paddlers who race in age groups, from elite to senior master, for the honours. Where the start and finish lies will be decided by Roozendaal closer to the date and is dependant on the weather and tides.

From its humble beginnings five years ago with only 30 participants, four of them waka ama paddlers, the event has become the Eastern Bay’s most significant paddle event, attracting elite and recreational paddlers from around the country.

To ensure the paddlers enjoy a safe event, a full fleet of support boats will be on the water.

As well as recognising the fastest finishers in each age group with cash prizes, there will be spot prizes for participants.

All competitors will prepare for the race at Mataatua Reserve.

After that, the public can watch either the start or the finish of the race at The Heads.