It'll be thrills and spills galore when the ENZED 2016 UIM Jetsprint World Championship returns to town this weekend.

A field of more than 40 jetsprint boats and 20 Altherm Group A boats are set to battle it out over two days of racing on the temporary water-filled track down at Mount Maunganui's ASB Baypark Stadium.

The ENZED 2016 UIM Jetsprint World Championship is kicking off at ASB Baypark Stadium tonight. Pictured: Meaner Machine - Driver Richard Murray and navigator Ian Carter. Chris Calinan

The popular event kicks off tonight with practice and qualifying rounds which are running from 6pm to 10pm. Gates open at 5pm.

Then on Saturday the main event gets underway, with finals racing taking place from 4pm to 10pm. Gates open 1pm.

Event director Pip Minnell says a number of international crews have rolled into town for the two day event which will feature drivers from New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and the US.

'It's the largest field of Suzuki Superboats to race in a world series ever. So there should be plenty of action, thrills and spills on the track,” she says.

'The world series is only biennial, and won't be back here in NZ until 2022. The great thing is the New Zealander drivers are the current world title holders. So it's about encouraging people to get along and back the Kiwis in defending their world title.”

Clutha Panel Repairs – driver Dave Hopkins and navigator Pam Reid. Photo: Chris Calinan

There'll also be plenty of action on and off the track, with the Pump KidZone featuring a giant water slide, bouncy castles, face painting, balloons, a fun photo booth – and a chance to meet Team Altherm motocross rider John Coppins.

Open 4pm-8pm on Saturday, the Pump KidZone is a gold coin entry with all proceeds going to Tauranga Volunteer Coastguard.

The ENZED 2016 UIM Jetsprint World Championship takes place at ASB Baypark Stadium in Mount Maunganui January 29-30. Tickets available from www.eventfinda.co.nz

Natwell Racing - driver Cheryl Welch and navigator Kassie Page. Photo: Chris Calinan