What's on in the Bay this weekend

Tauranga Armoured Combat captain Charlie Tapsell gears up to do battle against knights from across the ditch for The Tattoo Cup. Photo/Andrew Warner

It's never a dull weekend in the Bay of Plenty and Tauranga has another line-up of fun, family-friendly events to enjoy. Bonus: the weather is expected to be great!

Run to the Sun
A groovy gathering of classic Volkswagon vehicles will be on show in the Mount all weekend. Some will be parked up at Phoenix Carpark in Mount Maunganui on Saturday from 10am to 2pm, while others will remain at the mount of Mauao near Mount Main Beach. It's a colourful blast from the past!

Surf Life Saving Under 14s Championships
Day one of 'Oceans 16' was on Thursday and the weekend will see the competition of junior lifeguards heat up. There are nearly 900 nippers at the event, coming from 42 clubs around New Zealand. Entry to the event is free, it runs all day and food, coffee and ice-cream is available on-site.

Waihi Beach and Whiritoa junior lifeguards challenged at Under 14 New Zealand Surf Life Saving Championships, Mount Maunganui. PHOTO/Alana McIsaac.

NZ International Tattoo & Art Expo
Now in its sixth year the expo will feature an impressive line up of artists, aerial acrobats and performers. Over 150 tattoo artists from all over the world will be there over the two days. It is held at Queen Elizabeth Youth Centre, on Saturday 11am to 9pm and Sunday 11am to 7pm. Tickets can be purchased at eventfinda for $20.

Tattoo Cup
A little something different for the family, Tattoo Cup is New Zealand's largest event in the sport of historical medieval battle. Swords and armour abound as 20 knights from NZ would be competing against 15 to 17 Australians outside Queen Elizabeth Youth Centre on Saturday and Sunday 11am to 7pm. Door sales only, tickets $5, under 10s free.

Doggy Day Out at Western Ave, Omokoroa
Dog trainer Gary Jackson will be present at the second annual Doggy Day Out, sharing his knowledge on dog issues like responsible animal ownership, dog bite prevention and more. There is fun for the kids with balloon art, facepainting and a bouncy castle. The event runs from 10am to 2pm - don't miss the doggy photo booth!

Council's 'spokesdog' Alfie will be in Omokoroa this Saturday for the Doggy Day Out.