The first-ever WSL Championship Tour event at Raglan is living up to every expectation. Manu Bay's legendary left-hand point break has delivered three days of clean, long, competition-worthy waves — and the world's best surfers are making the most of them.
Robinson Back to Winning Form
Jack Robinson made a massive return to form in New Zealand, dismantling his Round 2 opponents with the kind of raw power surfing that made him a world title contender. The Australian's backhand attack — critical on a left-hand point break — was devastating, connecting turns through sections that other surfers were struggling to link.
Robinson arrived at Raglan after a quiet start to the 2026 season. He is leaving it as one of the favourites for the event title.
Ferreira's Raglan Debut
Italo Ferreira brought his signature flair to Manu Bay, posting a 7.83 in his first-ever heat at Raglan. The Brazilian's aerial antics — including a full rotation on a Manu Bay wall that would normally invite rail surfing — showed that even a long left can be a launching pad for the right surfer.
Gabriela Bryan squared up against Erin Brooks in the women's draw with a powerful performance that signals her intent for the event.
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Three days in and Manu Bay has been remarkably consistent. Southwest groundswells have lined up perfectly with light offshore winds, producing clean 3-5 foot walls that peel for 150-200 metres. The competition has been called on every day — unusual for a CT event where flat spells can halt proceedings for days.
Low tide has been producing the best conditions, with occasional barrel sections through the inside bowls. Several surfers have posted scores above 8 points, suggesting the wave is capable of producing excellent scores when the sets align.
Championship Implications
Gabriel Medina leads the men's standings and posted a dominant 15.20 total on Day 1. A strong result here could give him a significant cushion heading into the mid-season. Luana Silva leads the women's tour and is surfing with confidence.
The event window runs through May 25, with competition called on when conditions cooperate.
Surf Raglan Yourself
These waves don't leave when the tour does. Our Race the Route: Raglan guide has everything you need — swell windows, tide charts, and how to connect with local surfers on ZealZag.
Follow the full WSL 2026 season in our mid-season recap. Also this weekend: Giro d'Italia Stages 8-9 and Ultra-Trail Snowdonia.