The popular sporting tournament for intermediate students, the AIMS Games, kicked off in Tauranga on Sunday after a two-year COVID hiatus.
The event's launch coincided with Father's Day and there was no shortage of young athletes following in their dads' footsteps.
Dean Barker hardly needs an introduction. The yachting legend steered Team New Zealand for 13 years. It's a career that's now inspiring a new generation, including his daughter Isla.
"I hope to be in the America's Cup one day just like dad," she said.
"It's so nice when you can actually relate with your children, to be able to be involved in a sport that's been such a big part of my life," Dean added.
Dean spent Father's Day at Tauranga's Yacht Club where the AIMS Games yachting competition is taking place.
"Unfortunately, the last two years, it hasn't been able to be run due to COVID," he said.
Now it's back, Dean and his kids Isla and Matteo are making the most of it.
"I think it's quite nice for him to be able to watch us sail on Father's Day," Isla said.
The tournament brings together 11, 12 and 13-year-olds from 350 schools. More than 10,000 students are expected this year.
"The social side of it's huge. They get to hang out with all their mates again and compete and that's what it's all about," former Olympian Kane Radford said.
The open water swimming champ brought his young son to watch the championships.
"Growing up with swimming, my whole career, and being able to do things, it's great to be able to bring him down. His love for the water's something special," Radford said.
Matt Alaifea travelled from Porirua to support his 11-year-old daughter.
"Yo, it feels amazing man, watching other dads here with their kids," he said.
"I just want her to have fun you know? It's her day really, it's her time to shine."
Not a bad way to spend Father's Day.
