This Saturday runners and walkers from all over will descend upon Whangamata for the 2014 GJ Gardner Whangamata Run Walk Festival.

Starting at the Whangamata School Grounds competitors will be pounding the pavements over the half marathon, the 10km or the 5km distances.

The 2014 GJ Gardner Whangamata Run Walk Festival is on again this Saturday. Photo: Supplied.

Into its 18th year, the annual family event raises funds for Whangamata community groups.

The 2013 event was so successful organisers were able to distribute a record $11,700 to those community groups.

The event is open to both runners and walkers of all ages and abilities, who will be spoilt by spectacular views of the beaches and pristine bush-clad hills.

Only the running events will be judged and along with trophies there are plenty of cash prizes up for grabs, including $500 for the first place male and female in the half marathon event.

Along with cash prizes, a number of fantastic spot prizes will be given away during the event including a $2000 House of Travel voucher and a Beach Cruiser bike from Pedal & Paddle, valued at more than $500.

The 2014 GJ Gardner Whangamata Run Walk Festival is on this Saturday, from 9am.

Registration will take place on Friday, September 5, at the Whangamata School Hall from 6pm to 8.30pm.

Online entries have closed but late hardcopy entries will be accepted at the registration evening and on the morning of the event. A late entry fee of $10 will apply.

Children under the age of 12 may only enter the 10km and 5km events.

The Half Marathon and 10km race starts 9am, while the 5km race starts 9:30am. The course will be closed at 12:30pm.

For more information or to download an entry form visit www.whangamatarunwalk.co.nz