Tauranga residents are being encouraged to head along to Sulphur Point tonight as Earth Hour celebrations take place.

Tauranga City Council is hosting an acoustic concert and a night market will also be at the Old BMX track to mark the occasion.

People are being encouraged to turn their lights off at 8.30pm to celebrate Earth Hour.

TCC sustainability advisor Michelle Elborn says Earth Hour is an opportunity for people to consider their role in caring for the planet.

The event will also feature a night market including stalls from The Little Big Markets, Tauranga Farmers Market and environmental organisations.

Michelle says this is a celebration of local products and produce - buying local achieves a range of sustainability benefits in itself.

She says there will be limited food stalls available or pack a picnic. Bring something to sit on and dress warm.

Drinking water will be available from the Hydrohub so bring a reusable water bottle and bring your reusable coffee cup too.

'We are making every effort to minimise the impact of our event and thank you for your help with this. A bike park will be available for cyclists.”

For more information on Earth Hour visit www.tauranga.govt.nz