Punters are flocking to local bars in Tauranga today to watch the Melbourne Cup Day races on the big screen.

The Phoenix, Miss Gee's, The Matua Bar, Brew Co and Papa Mo's are just some of the bars hosting racing festivities.

Those getting amongst the fun are dressed up and ready for races to kick off at 5pm.

The event is running a little differently in Melbourne this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with no fans allowed to attend the actual event.

Mary and John Pickering with granddaughter, 7-year-old Kiara McCabe at The Phoenix. Photo: John Borren.