Raglan’s stunning coastline, world-class surf breaks and the warmth and hospitality of locals were on full display during the World Surf League Championship Tour.
The atmosphere around town was upbeat throughout the event, with families, surf fans and visitors filling the streets, beaches and hospitality venues. At Waikere Manu Bay, crowds settled in with picnic blankets and deck chairs, while young surf fans lined up for autographs and photos with international surfing stars.
Waikato District Councillor Lisa Thomson says the event exceeded expectations, particularly given the short lead-in time required to organise an event of this scale.
“I’m incredibly proud of how our community came together to make this event possible,” she says.
“From whānau, hapū and marae, there was a real sense of collective effort and pride. It was inspiring to see our tamariki and rangatahi engaging with the athletes and bringing their energy and enthusiasm to the event. Those are connections that will stay with our young people long after the competition ends.”
Raglan Surf Co. owner Luke Hughes believes the event’s success goes beyond attendance figures and sales.
“A lot of people will measure success by how long the event ran, but the audience it reached was huge,” he says.
“We’re likely see increased interest in Raglan for years to come. The atmosphere, community engagement and the experience created for both surfers and non-surfers made it a real success.”
Harbour View Hotel owner Fiona Gates says while there was plenty of discussion and uncertainty leading into the event, the atmosphere and benefits it brought to Raglan quickly won people over.
“Raglan showed itself at its absolute best, and we’d love to see the WSL return again next year,” she says. “Seeing businesses busy, locals embracing it, visitors connecting with Raglan and the whole town buzzing has been something pretty special to be part of.”
Fiona says the success of the event was the result of a huge collective effort behind the scenes.
“A huge amount of work went in from the WSL team, local businesses, volunteers, organisers and staff. We’re really proud of what was achieved together and grateful to everyone who helped make it happen.”
Raglan Surf Emporium owner John Clapham says Raglan and New Zealand can be proud of how they were showcased to the world.
“It was one of the best contests I’ve been to anywhere in the world, and to have it in our own backyard was second to none,” he says. “I think we’ve proved that Raglan can do this, and do it exceptionally well.”
There will no doubt be lessons to take into next year if the competition returns, but the World Surf League Championship Tour has shown that Raglan can successfully host a world-class event without losing its laidback vibe.
