Hāwea’s annual community competition took place in 31 degree temperatures - the hottest in Otago - on Saturday (February 6).

The Waitangi Day Town versus Country Challenge clocked up 16 years, and a decisive victory by Town this year leaves the townsfolk in the lead nine to seven.

It was a slightly unusual year for the event, long term organiser Colleen Carr told the Wanaka App, as being the Saturday of a long weekend there were a lot of people out of town and fewer events than usual.

The Top Town Challenge was held at Hāwea Flat School, which hosts the event every second year. 

“Traditionally Country win when it’s held here,” Colleen said, noting there were more Townies than usual at the event this year.

Hāwea kids run for the lolly scramble.

“Country people should stay at home next year,” she joked.

The searing temperatures made the water events at the challenge particularly popular for the kids, while most adults kept to a narrow wedge of shade under the trees.

Good use was also made of the Hāwea Flat School pool as the mercury rose.

Outnumbered Country kids dig deep in the Tug of War.

Town won the golf, the junior netball, orienteering, and the egg cup relay and Tug of War at the Top Town Challenge. 

Town also finally managed to win the quiz night (only its second win to Country) this year.

That left Country with wins in the intermediate and senior netball, and the spud gun relay at the Top Town Challenge.

PHOTOS: Wanaka App