Raglan Secures Historic World Surf League Championship Event Following South African Venue Departure
The world elite of surfing will descend upon Raglan next year as the World Surf League brings its Championship Tour to Manu Bay. This major competition takes place from May 15 to May 25 in 2026, the event marks the first time New Zealand will host a combined men and women top tier contest.
Taranaki Legacy Sets Stage for National Surfing Revival
New Zealand has not hosted the sport's highest tier of competition in over a decade, Taranaki was the last region to welcome elite athletes for the women's tour between 2010 and 2013. Surfing Taranaki chief executive Craig Williamson recalls those years fondly, he served as the event director during that era to support local talent like Paige Hareb. The return of the Championship Tour reignites excitement across the country, it offers a rare chance for local communities to witness global superstars firsthand. Historical data shows that these events spark interest in ocean sports, previous competitions helped launch the careers of current national stars. Taranaki residents feel a special connection to this legacy, they view the upcoming Raglan event as a victory for the entire Kiwi surfing ecosystem.
Manu Bay Confirmed for May 2026 Championship Tour
The World Surf League officially announced the decision to move the tour stop to Manu Bay in Raglan, the competition runs from May 15 through May 25 in 2026. This schedule change occurs after Jeffreys Bay in South Africa was removed due to financial challenges, organizers required a new venue capable of hosting the top 36 men and 24 women in the world. The New Zealand government secured this opportunity through its Events Attraction Package, this fund targets international gatherings that drive significant visitor traffic.
Two local surfers will join the roster as wildcards, national champions like Billy Stairmand and Maya Mateja stand out as strong contenders for these coveted spots. This event represents a major milestone, it is the first time New Zealand will host a combined men and women Championship Tour contest. The shift highlights the financial realities of global sports, the league must prioritize venues with secure backing to ensure tour sustainability. Surfing New Zealand will manage the trials process, they aim to ensure the best local talent gets a chance to challenge the visiting professionals.
Local Economy and Young Athletes to Benefit Greatly
Bringing the tour to the Waikato region promises substantial economic rewards, thousands of spectators and media personnel will descend on the coastal town. Local businesses expect a surge in revenue during the shoulder tourism season, the global broadcast puts Raglan on screens worldwide. Young surfers gain the most from this development, Williamson noted that seeing heroes in person provides unmatched inspiration for the next generation of athletes.
Officials continue to prepare the infrastructure required for such a massive logistical undertaking. The surfing community eagerly awaits the arrival of the world best competitors next May, they anticipate a festival atmosphere that celebrates both sport and culture.
