The World Surf League has confirmed that the New Zealand Pro will return to the Championship Tour schedule for the 2027 season. Following the debut of the event earlier this year, a strengthened partnership between the World Surf League and the New Zealand Government ensures that the world’s best surfers will head back to Aotearoa and the famous left-point break at Raglan’s Manu Bay. Although long regarded as one of the finest waves globally, Manu Bay had never hosted top-tier Championship Tour competition prior to May. The venue quickly established itself as a must-watch location, combining progressive high-performance surfing with traditional rail work.
During the inaugural event, Manu Bay delivered memorable competition across both divisions. Reigning World Champion Yago Dora of Brazil demonstrated perfection in his approach, whilst Sawyer Lindblad of the United States displayed a masterclass in forehand style. Historic victories were claimed by World Champions and Olympic Gold Medalists Carissa Moore of Hawaii and Italo Ferreira of Brazil.
Beyond international stars, the 2026 New Zealand Pro served as a critical platform for local talent. New Zealand surfers Billy Stairmand, Alani Morse, and Tom Butland showcased their abilities on a global stage. The decision to secure the event for 2027 guarantees that rising Kiwi surfers will continue testing their mettle against top international competitors on home soil. To support this national pathway, two New Zealanders will earn wildcard entries into the 2027 Championship Tour event through a local trials competition, furthering the country’s rich history of competitive surfing.
The continuation of the event relies on strong institutional backing. Supported by the New Zealand Government’s Events Attraction Package, the tournament brings economic benefits to the Waikato region and highlights local infrastructure.
WSL APAC President Andrew Stark expressed enthusiasm for the return, stating: “The WSL is so excited to see the CT return to Raglan in 2027. Raglan is a truly special place, with a deep surfing heritage, world-class waves and an incredibly passionate local community, and after an amazing event in 2026, we know the athletes and fans will embrace the opportunity to experience it again. We’d like to sincerely thank the New Zealand Government for its support in bringing this event back in 2027, as well as the Waikato and Raglan communities for welcoming the WSL back. The enthusiasm and commitment we’ve seen from everyone involved has been fantastic, and we’re looking forward to working together to deliver an unforgettable Championship Tour event in 2027.”
Echoing these sentiments, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston highlighted the wider commercial value: “It’s fantastic to see the World Surf League returning to Raglan in 2027. Following the success of this year’s event, bringing the world’s best surfers back to one of New Zealand’s most iconic surf breaks will once again showcase Raglan and the Waikato to a global audience. We’re backing events that put New Zealand on the world stage, attract visitors, support local businesses, and create lasting benefits for communities. We know major events deliver real economic impact, and the return of the World Surf League is another great example of that in action.”
Looking Ahead to the 2027 Championship Tour
The official return to Raglan reinforces New Zealand’s standing in international professional surfing. Whilst the complete schedule for the 2027 World Surf League Championship Tour will be released later this year, the confirmation of the New Zealand Pro provides certainty for athletes, local businesses, and fans. With community backing from Waikato and Raglan alongside government investment, the 2027 event promises another chapter of elite competition at Manu Bay.
