Raglan’s own Billy Stairmand will compete against the world’s best surfers at Manu Bay this May after receiving a wildcard entry into the New Zealand Pro, Stop No. 4 of the 2026 World Surf League Championship Tour.
Billy – a nine-time New Zealand champion and two-time Olympian – will make his Championship Tour debut at his home break, in front of a local crowd.
“It’s pretty surreal,” he said. “To get this opportunity at home, in front of friends, family and the community, is a huge honour.”
Two additional New Zealand surfers will also join the main event through the upcoming Backdoor King and Queen of the Point trials, making it the largest Kiwi presence ever at a Championship Tour event.
The New Zealand Pro will run at Manu Bay from May 15–25, bringing the world’s top surfers – and global attention – to Whāingaroa.
