Tauranga political candidates will be answering questions on sport and recreation policy in a series of candidate meetings next month.

Active transport, breaking down the barriers to get adults more active, engaging volunteers in sport and future funding will be some of the hot topics for the Bay politicians.

The Regional Sports Trust is hosting free public Q&A sessions in Tauranga, Rotorua and Whakatane with local candidates from National, Labour, NZ First, ACT, The Opportunities Party, Maori Party and Green Party attending to answer first-hand questions around sport, recreation and health.

Sport Bay of Plenty CEO Heidi Litchwark says this is an opportunity for members of the public to put their local candidates to the test, in order to find out about their future plans for our region.

'It's not often you get a forum such as this to focus on specific political policies, so this is a prime opportunity – not just for those involved in sport, but for anyone who has questions around recreational activities and health.

'That includes everything from tackling childhood obesity and supporting the fundamental development of our children, to the cost of participating in sport and recreation, to the future of our outdoor recreation spaces and development of more active transport.

'It's more than just simply ‘sport' and ‘recreation' and because of this we believe there are aspects that concern all Bay of Plenty residents. We're expecting a robust discussion.”

Those who wish to attend the evenings are asked to RSVP on the Sport Bay of Plenty website by Wednesday, August 30, with their contact details and location choice.

Light refreshments will be served. Visit www.sportbop.co.nz/meet-the-candidates-registration/ to RSVP.