It's all fast and furious this afternoon at the Waihi Beach Dirt Track as enthusiastic car drivers take to the dirt with their pride and joy.

There are classes for beginners and less experienced drivers, right through to those who want to go all out.

Evan Harding, a club member who doubles as a helper for his son, driver Todd Harding, also takes to the track driving a car owned by a friend.

'It's a V6 Commodore which is supercharged, in a Viva,” says Evan. 'Todd drives a Toyota starlet with a Cortina engine in it. He's been racing since he was 15.

'We go the opposite direction to Baypark, so it's called a ‘black track'. Some say our track is better than the one at Baypark. It's really brilliant and fortunately there is a farmer here who lets us use his land.”

Today's meet is all about driving clockwise while trying not to be distracted by the stunning view of the Tauranga harbour.

'It's a hundred million dollar view, just breathtaking,” says Evan.

But he says the racing is comparatively cheap.

'Todd's car cost him about $2000 and every few years he puts another motor in it.”

The event today is the ‘Waihi Beach vs Meremere Challenge' with gates opened from 8.30am and racing from 11am.

Racing at the Waihi Beach Dirt Track is attracting car drivers and spectators from around the North Island. There's a strong social aspect with participants enjoying a cold drink and chat after the day's event.

The Pork Bonz bar and food caravan is open all day, with cash only options available, and it's only $5 to get in to watch the racing.

There is even a car that can be hired for a race for anyone who wants to have a go.

'But be warned! You will like it! We are a group of like-minded people who just love to race on dirt. We believe in a sense of fair play.