The highly anticipated Zespri AIMS Games is officially underway in Tauranga this week.

More than 22,000 people, including officials, supports and athletes, have descended on the city for the 18th annual event.

A record 373 schools have registered bringing 11,733 athletes who will compete across 25 sporting codes.

The first of the sporting codes began on Saturday, with the official opening ceremony being held at Mercury Baypark on Sunday.

SunLive will have continues coverage of the games throughout the week.

Check out the AIMS Games tab on the website for more stories or see below for photos of the opening ceremony.