Gisborne, Tairāwhiti will once again play host to New Zealand’s most prestigious domestic surfing competition. The 2026 New Zealand National Surfing Championships are officially scheduled to run from January 11 to 17, 2026, bringing the country’s top surfers and rising talents back to one of Aotearoa’s most iconic coastal regions.
This marks the first time since 2018 that Gisborne has hosted the event, a return that promises to reconnect competitors with the area’s renowned surf conditions and strong community spirit.
A Mobile Event in Search of the Best Waves
The Championships operate as a mobile event, allowing organizers to shift competition locations daily to find the best surf. This flexible format ensures ideal conditions for every division. Competitors can expect to ride waves at Gisborne’s famed beaches, including Midway Beach, Wainui Beach, and Makorori, as well as more secluded coastal spots.
Spectators will also be treated to an exciting week of world-class surfing set against the backdrop of the East Coast’s summer beauty.
Local Excitement Builds
Local surf club Gisborne Boardriders is gearing up to welcome the event back to its shores. Flo Bub, a representative from the club, shared the community’s enthusiasm:
“Having the Nationals back in Gisborne is massive, not just for the local surf scene but for the whole community. Surfing is woven into the fabric of life here — from long-time surfers to young kids just starting out. It brings energy and support to the town, local businesses, and families alike.”
A Legacy of Surfing Excellence
Founded in 1963, the New Zealand National Surfing Championships is the oldest and most respected surfing event in the country. The inaugural competition took place at Mount Maunganui, and over the years, it has travelled from Kaitaia in the north to Dunedin in the south, showcasing the nation’s surf culture and coastal diversity.
This event has long served as a launching pad for top surfing talent. Many of New Zealand’s elite surfers, including Billy Stairmand, have made their mark at the Nationals. Stairmand made history in 2017 by surpassing the previous record of five titles held by legends Wayne Parkes and Iain Buchanan.
Inclusive Format: 27 Divisions, All Ages and Abilities
The 2026 Championships will feature 27 divisions, covering a broad range of age groups and surfing disciplines:
- Premier Open Men’s and Women’s
- Age-group divisions from Under-14 to Over-70 for both males and females
- Longboard, Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP), Bodyboard, Kneeboard, and Adaptive Surfing
This wide-ranging structure makes the Nationals more than a high-level competition—it’s a true celebration of surfing for all New Zealanders, regardless of age or ability.
More Than a Competition: A Community Festival
For many, the Nationals represent an opportunity not just to compete, but to connect. Juniors, seasoned surfers, and adaptive athletes will share the waves in a welcoming, supportive environment that celebrates surfing’s inclusive spirit.
Gisborne’s vibrant community, consistent summer swells, and spectacular coastal landscape make it an ideal setting for this flagship event.
“Returning the Nationals to Gisborne feels like a homecoming,” said Surfing New Zealand CEO Ben Kennings. “The region has produced some of New Zealand’s finest surfers, and its beaches provide the perfect stage for what we expect to be one of the biggest and best Championships yet.”
What to Expect in 2026
Visitors and locals can anticipate a lively week of surfing, beachside entertainment, live event coverage, and family-friendly activities. With its relaxed atmosphere, warm temperatures, and rich surf culture, Gisborne is expected to draw large crowds, including holidaymakers and surf enthusiasts from around the country.
Gisborne Boardriders will serve as the host club. Flo Bub added:
“We’re stoked to be hosting the Nationals once again. We’re hoping for pumping surf, beautiful summer days, and those classic East Coast vibes that make Tairāwhiti so special.”
Key Details
- Event Name: New Zealand National Surfing Championships 2026
- Dates: January 11–17, 2026
- Location: Gisborne, Tairāwhiti (mobile across top surf spots in the region)
- Divisions: 27 across different age groups and disciplines
- Eligibility: Open to New Zealand citizens, permanent residents, or those eligible for a New Zealand passport
- Organizer: Surfing New Zealand