The New Zealand Pro will return to the World Surf League Championship Tour in 2027. The confirmation follows the successful debut of the event at Manu Bay, Raglan, earlier this year.
The WSL and the New Zealand Government have extended their partnership to bring the world’s leading surfers back to the famous left-hand point break. The event receives support through the government’s Events Attraction Package.
Though long-regarded as one of the finest waves in the world, Raglan’s Manu Bay had never experienced the highest level of surf competition prior to the inaugural CT event held in May. Providing a lengthy left canvas that offered a solid mix of progressive high-performance surfing and traditional rail work, Manu Bay announced itself as a must-watch venue. From the perfection of reigning World Champion Yago Dora’s (BRA) approach and the forehand style masterclass delivered by Sawyer Lindblad (USA) to the historic wins from World Champions and Olympic Gold Medalists Carissa Moore (HAW) and Italo Ferreira (BRA), Raglan proved that its arrival on the CT is long overdue.
RAGLAN, NEW ZEALAND – MAY 25: Lineup at the Corona Cero New Zealand Pro on May 25, 2026 at Raglan, New Zealand. (Photo by Rambo Estrada/World Surf League)<
“The WSL is so excited to see the CT return to Raglan in 2027,” said WSL APAC President Andrew Stark. “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.
Raglan Secures Its Place
Manu Bay hosted its first Championship Tour contest in May 2026. The long left-hand walls delivered opportunities for progressive surfing and traditional rail work.
Carissa Moore and Italo Ferreira claimed the victories. Yago Dora and Sawyer Lindblad were also among the surfers who made the most of the Raglan conditions.
WSL APAC President Andrew Stark praised the local surfing heritage, world-class waves and support from the Raglan community. New Zealand Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston also highlighted the event’s tourism and economic value.
The contest will again include two New Zealand wildcard surfers in 2027. They will earn their places through a local trials event.
JBay Remains Outside The Tour
The confirmation is excellent news for New Zealand surfing. However, it appears to close another door for Jeffreys Bay.
Raglan now has government support, a renewed agreement and a confirmed place on the 2027 schedule. Other established venues are also competing for limited positions on the Tour.
Raglan has secured its place on the 2027 Championship Tour. J-Bay remains in limbo, although the reality is even simpler. It’s probably not coming back.
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