Cromwell is once again showcasing its position as the cherry capital of New Zealand with a quirky, fun, summer-event planned.

The annual NZ National Cherry Stone Spitting Championships will be held on Wednesday December 28.

While the top spitters on the day will be rewarded with prizes (and bragging rights), there will also be spot prizes for Most Innovative Technique, Dribbliest Spit, and Facial Expression of the Day. 

Now in its seventeenth year, the annual festival is always a hit with locals and visitors, Cromwell Promotions Group organising committee’s Marion Low said.

“It’s a great way to get out and enjoy the warm Central Otago sunshine, so come along and have a go.”

The competition has four categories – children up to 12 years of age, juniors from 12-16 years of age, and adult men and women.

Last year Tui Smith was the winner of the Men’s Category with a distance of 13.1 m. The Women’s Category was won by Amy Corry with a distance of 8.2 m.

Advice on spitting techniques varies, but the “roll the tongue” method is favoured by Brian Krause from Michigan, USA, who set the world record of 28.51m in 2004.

Registrations open at 11:30 am on December 28 at The Gate on Barry Avenue, and anyone dressed in red will get an extra cherry to boost their chances of winning.