Canada's group of Tauranga City summer settlers took to the golf course with earnest yesterday, taking part in the annual Canomu Golf Tournament in Tauranga.

In its 13th year, the tournament at Omanu Golf Club, organised by Canadian Ed Klassen is a way to thank the region for its hospitality.

From right: Reg Stark, Marg Gellespie, Ian Thompson and Dorothy Lowe, about to tee off in the Canomu Golf Tournament. Photo: Bruce Barnard.

Starting in December each year, a migration of Canadians land in the Bay of Plenty to escape the cold and explore New Zealand for about three months – with many casual golfers becoming seasonal members of the Omanu and Mount Maunganui Golf Club.

Event organiser Ed Klassen says 13 years ago many of the same Canadians that still choose this area as their annual winter vacation, decided to organise a small golf tournament that would be hosted by them.

Since then the tournament has grown to a playing field of more than 110 players.

'It seems that Canadians and New Zealanders have a lot in common, and we very much appreciate the warm hospitality that is shown to us,” says Ed.

'It is a fun and casual tournament, and the goal of the event is simply to have a lot of laughs and great camaraderie.

Ed says he would not be able to host such an event without the help of Omanu Golf Club manager Barry Plank, president Barry Keast and secretary Wai Wyatt.

The tournament is strictly with Omanu Golf Club (no New Zealand golfing affiliations) and started when a group of 80 Canadians approached the club wanting to play its members.

The day is paid for by the Canadians, including prizes, a full course meal and a complimentary drink while every player receives a golf prize, regardless of his or her score.