Entries open this week for the second Trustpower Photographic Exhibition, following the success of the first one which resulted in the popular open air display of entries along The Strand earlier this year.

Downtown Tauranga Project Manager Sally Cooke says they're delighted the event is on again.

'After an immensely successful inaugural event with thousands of people making a trip to the city centre to see the winning photographs displayed along The Strand, we are thrilled to announce that entries are now open for the 2018 Trustpower Photographic Exhibition.”

Sally says they're expecting the second year of the event to be even bigger than the first.

'We were overwhelmed with the success of the inaugural event, it blew all expectations with over 1740 entries and the quality and quantity of entries was astounding so we are absolutely delighted to be able to launch the second year of this initiative.

'It provides a unique opportunity to showcase both our creative talent and our region and it makes for a fantastic city centre exhibition.”

The display of entries across the four categories is believed to be the largest outdoor exhibition of images of the region and people.

Thousands of people saw the photographs that showcased the 20 winning entries on large outdoor display boards along The Strand.

Both amateur and professional photographers are invited to enter up to 10 photos that show the Western Bay of Plenty region in the following categories:

Our People - Friends, family, whanau, or someone who inspires you... this category captures the emotion and connection between people that make our region so special.

Nature & Landscape - There's no shortage of stunning scenery in the Bay. Enter your best shots of our plentiful natural beauty and the wildlife within it.

Celebration - What does this mean to you? Capturing that moment of celebration in your life, your surroundings, your experiences and celebrating the rich culture, vibrancy and action of our region.

Digital Manipulation - Bring your imagination to life in this experimental category. Whether you are combining multiple elements, emphasising key features or creating an alternate reality within your images.

All photos must be taken in the Western Bay of Plenty. Entries close January 9, 2018.

There are 21 awards to be won across a prize pool of $10,000.

Our People – 1st and 2nd place winners

Nature & Landscapes – 1st and 2nd place winners

Celebration – 1st and 2nd place winners

Digital Manipulation – 1st and 2nd place winners

Young Photographer (18 and under) – Judges' choice, Excellence Award

Young Photographer (18 and under) – Judges' choice, Merit Award

10 Highly Commended – chosen from any of the finalists from any category

Prizes for the four categories:

First prize is $1000 plus photo profiles in UNO. Magazine & Weekend Sun

Second prize is $500 plus photo profiles in UNO. Magazine and Weekend Sun

Prizes for the Young Photographer Category:

First Prize is $400 plus photo profiles in UNO. Magazine & Weekend Sun

Second Prize is $100 plus photo profiles in UNO. Magazine & Weekend Sun

Supreme Prize: A trip to London, Paris, New York or Rome worth $3000 from House of Travel Tauranga and Downtown Tauranga

The entry form is here.