Organisers of the Port of Tauranga Half have announced the 29th edition of the annual triathlon will take place on January 20, 2018.

Part of the Mount Festival of Multisport, organisers have had to push back the POT, which usually races in the second weekend of January, to the third weekend due to next year's cruise ship schedule and its impact on health and safety.

'Multiple discussions have taken place with Tauranga City Council and Tourism Bay of Plenty who are working with us to ensure the best outcome for the Port of Tauranga Half,” a spokesperson explains.

'Whilst we are aware of the challenges of changing the date from previous and appreciate your understanding, moving the event out of the peak holiday period come with numerous benefits.”

These benefits include accommodation availability, alleviation of traffic congestion, improved course safety and the ability for more local companies to be involved.

'We are excited about the positive changes this date will bring and we would also like to confirm that the Mount Festival of Multisport will again include a line-up of fun events for the whole family.

'[This includes] the Athletes Expo, Under Armour Mount Run, Little Big Markets, Street Food Union and prize giving held in conjunction with the Night Owl Cinemas at Mount Drury.”

Along with the date change, the organisers have also announced a new pricing structure for the 2018 event, and as an opening special, individuals can enter the POT for $250 + booking fee, and teams for $320 + BF from 9am Friday, April 28, up until midnight on Sunday, April 30.

The Port of Tauranga Half will take place at Pilot Bay in Mount Maunganui on Saturday, January 20, 2018. For full entry details, visit www.mountfestival.kiwi