Everything to know for the World Surf League's NZ debut in Raglan

The world’s best surfers are heading to Raglan this month for the Corona Cero New Zealand Pro presented by Bonsoy.

It marks a major milestone for Aotearoa, with the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour arriving at the iconic left-hand point break at Manu Bay for the first time.

Bringing elite surfers and local crowds together on the shore, here’s everything you need to know about this historic event.

When and where?

The official event window runs from May 15 to May 25, 2026, typically between 7:30 am and 5:00 pm at Manu Bay, Raglan. Surfing depends on the ocean conditions, so the WSL team will make ‘daily status calls’ every morning to decide if the event is ‘On’ or ‘Off’ that day.

How do I know if the event is on?

The best way to stay updated is to download the WSL app or follow the WSL Instagram. Notifications are sent out as soon as the daily call is made.

How do I get to the event?

PARKING:

There is no public parking available at Manu Bay on competition days. To manage the limited capacity and ensure safety on Wainui Road, all spectators must use the Park & Ride Transport System and collect their Event Transport Pass wristbands at the airfield ticket box.

• Where to park: The shuttle hub operates from the Raglan Airfield.

• Shuttle times: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm on competition days (final shuttle leaves Manu Bay at 6.15pm)

• Full Festival Transport Pass (All days): $50 for adults, $30 for ages 7-16.

• Event Day Pass (Single day): $15 for adults, $10 for ages 7-16.

Festival passes can be purchased online via Flicket starting Thursday, May 7. Single-day passes are only available at the Raglan Airfield once the event is officially called ‘On’ for that day. Kids under 6 ride free.

What else is happening at Manu Bay?

Beyond the world-class surfing, Manu Bay will also feature a wide range of food trucks, merch shops, and pop-up activations from brands like Bonsoy, YETI, Red Bull, and I-SEA Sunglasses. You can also BYO your own skateboard and helmet for the on-site skate ramp!

If you want to get up to speed on all the surf slang ahead of the event, Mai FM’s Storme caught up with Kiwi shredder Billy Stairmand, who taught us how not to sound like a total kook.

What can I bring?

It’s essential for this outdoor event that you bring weather-appropriate clothing to protect you from all the elements. Plus, it’s a good idea to bring along a reusable water bottle!

The event is a low-waste initiative, so please avoid single-use plastics, and care for the land around you by taking all rubbish with you when you leave.

What you CAN’T bring: 

• Alcohol

•  Drones

• Glass

• Professional photography equipment (lenses over 20cm)

• No dogs permitted on-site (unless assisted service dogs)

Note: Bag checks will be in place before boarding the shuttles

Special requirements for the locals

If you are a resident or business owner within the checkpoint area (Ngarunui Beach Road through to Ruapuke Campground), you will need to display a Resident and Business Local Pass to get through the checkpoints. 

These can be collected from the Raglan iHUB or Poihākena Marae on specific dates in early May.

Wainui Road will remain open, but expect delays during peak arrival and departure times.

Can’t make it to the main site?

If the venue reaches its 6,500-person capacity or you prefer a more relaxed vibe, several Live Sites in town will be streaming all the action, including the Harbour View Hotel, The Yard, Orca, and the Raglan Club.

Whether you’re heading down to see it live or following along from one of the live sites, it’s shaping up to be a big few days on the water - shaka brah!