A return of the largest motorcycle rally in the Southern Hemisphere

The Burt Munro Challenge is back for its 18th year today, kicking off with Southland Honda Track Day -- followed by five other competitions across five days.

The annual event attracts thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts to Invercargill -- both riders and spectators.

Committee Chairman, Bill Moffatt says it's hard to pick a personal highlight, but the beach racing ranks highly.

He says it draws a great crowd, as it's a rare spot to race -- given normal restrictions which usually apply.