More than 140 firefighters from across the South Island are set to converge on Christchurch this weekend to compete in one of the country’s most physically demanding firefighter sporting events.

The UFBA South Island Firefighter Challenge will take place on Saturday at the Hagley Park Netball Courts, where competitors from urban, rural, industrial and defence force brigades will race against each other and the clock in a series of tasks designed to simulate real firefighting conditions.

During the challenge, competitors will wear full firefighting protective equipment and breathing apparatus while completing a demanding course.

Tasks include climbing a six storey tower carrying a 19kg hose pack, hoisting equipment, striking a steel beam with a hammer, hitting a target with a charged hose and dragging an 81kg mannequin across the finish line.

Organisers said the event tested both physical and mental strength, with firefighters pushing themselves to their limits while demonstrating the real world demands of the job.

Many competitors have trained for months to prepare for the challenge.

Some are experienced competitors, while others will take part for the first time hoping to secure a place at the UFBA National Firefighter Challenge in May.

The competition was adapted from a similar event in the United States and has become a regular feature on the firefighter calendar in New Zealand.

Members of the public are invited to attend and support competitors throughout the day.

The event will run from 8.30am until about 5.00pm on Saturday at the Hagley Park Netball Courts in Christchurch.