Hundreds of people put on their most outlandish bathing suits to take a dip in the ocean for this year's Papamoa Polar Plunge.

Men, women, and children of all ages braved the cold temperatures for the chance to win $1000 for a charity of their choice.

The plunge took place just in front of the Papamoa Surf Life Saving Club, with dozens of shivering entrants lining the beach in onesies and other costumes.

Each entrant was able to nominate a charity of their choice to win $1000, if their name was drawn at the end of the event. To be eligible for the draw, all entrants had to do was fully submerge themselves beneath the waves.

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 Oceanblue Health and Fitness took 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”.