Hundreds of people will get ‘freezin' for a reason' this weekend for the annual Papamoa Polar Plunge.

The event, which started in 2015, offers participants the chance to donate $1000 cash to their chosen local non-profit organisation.

Event manager Kate Percy from Papamoa Unlimited says the Polar Plunge is a great opportunity for people to come together in the spirit of giving back to the community.

'While the money will certainly make a difference for the winners, the real value is in the spirit that is conjured as a result of such teamwork,” says Kate.

Schools, sports clubs, community organisations, individuals and businesses are invited to join forces in pursuit of the prize money.

This year will see Oceanblue Health and Fitness take the plunge for Tauranga St John. Club manager Sue McBurney says having the opportunity to be part of an event that has real local impact is 'a privilege”.

Papamoa Beach Tavern will donate the cash to Tauranga Coastguard should they be the winners on the day, and will warm up participants with free treats and giveaways immediately after the plunge. 'The tavern is pumped for the plunge every year,” says manager Kerry Bollen. 'We think it's a great way to give back to the community.”

Registrations for the Polar Plunge are by gold coin and open from 10.30am at Papamoa Domain on Sunday, July 29.

Plunge time is 11am and the winner of the $1000 cash will be drawn from the pool of participants. All plunge entrants must get completely under the water to secure their place in the draw.