The annual New Zealand Juggling and Circus Festival is coming to Tauranga.

In its 27^th year, the national festival is taking place at the Aongatete Outdoor Education Centre on Thursday 31 January to Monday 4 February.

The festival attracts people from all over the world and gives people of all abilities a chance to learn new skills and tricks.

President of the New Zealand Juggling Association Mark Williams says that he is expecting up to 150 visitors to the festival.

'We will have a great audience on site, people can learn a few things and in the evening viewers can watch the show where the professionals perform.”

From Friday, visitors will be taken through workshops during the day, with shows in the evening for all to enjoy.

'On Friday there is an open stage, where people can try something new, get up and have a go.

'On the Saturday evening there is the gala show, where international and full time performers will showcase their talent.”

'It is a big community event, where families are welcome.”

Tauranga based juggler Jason Butler, owner of Butler's Circus Warehouse, is the local host for the event, giving both locals and visitors the chance to experience four days of learning and entertainment.

'At the festival, Jason offers his classes, unicycling, hoola-hoops, and acrobatics.

'It is great to have him on board.

'We like to move the festival around the country to expose different communities to juggling and to circus, and to bring it to Tauranga for the first time is fantastic,” says Mark.