Christchurch residents are being invited to brave the icy waters of New Brighton Beach this weekend to mark a longstanding Antarctic tradition.

The New Zealand Antarctic Society, in partnership with the Step Ahead Trust, is hosting a midwinter polar plunge on Saturday 21 June at 8am, with participants encouraged to arrive by 7.30am.

Chris Lynch Media will film the event.

The midwinter plunge is a symbolic event inspired by a tradition in Antarctica, where crews wintering over mark the solstice by diving into freezing ocean waters.

Organisers said the event is an opportunity for locals to celebrate Christchurch’s close connection to Antarctica and to experience a small taste of what those based on the continent endure.

The plunge will take place at the car park on the north ramp between He Puna Taimoana and the New Brighton Surf Life Saving Club.

Participants are encouraged to bring swimmers, warm clothes, towels, and a thermos of hot tea or coffee. Costumes are also welcome.

The event is supported by the New Brighton Surf Life Saving Club and ChristchurchNZ.