Step up and send it! The ultimate summer showdown is back!

Tauranga Moana Manu Champs returns to the waterfront on Saturday, 16 January 2027 for a huge day of manu, music and summer vibes. Proudly delivered by Tauranga City Council, this free community event celebrates local manu culture while bringing people together for an unforgettable day on the waterfront.

Think you've got what it takes to be crowned Tauranga Moana Manu Champ?

Step up, send your best manu and compete for local bragging rights and the chance to qualify for the 2027 Z Manu World Champs in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland. The first placed male and female in each division will fast-track to the grand final, going Manu for Manu against the best from across Aotearoa.

Whether you're jumping, cheering, or soaking up the atmosphere, bring the whānau, back your crew and make a day of it. There's plenty happening on and off the water with live music, free fades and braids, a free sausage sizzle, spot prizes and giveaways throughout the day.

Join our Facebook event for the latest event updates, info and announcements.

Sign up with ZMWC for the inside scoop on all things Manu World Champs.

Keen to compete?

Entry is free and open to anyone aged 8 and over.

Pre-registration returns for 2027 and will open in early December 2026. Follow the Facebook event for updates and be ready to secure your spot on the wharf as soon as registrations go live!

Divisions:

• Manu Adults (18+)
• Manu Youth (13-17 years)
• Manu Kids (8-12 years)
• Old Skool (8+)

Age categories are based on your age as at 4 April 2027.

*Photos and videos will be taken at this event for promotional use.

What to bring: Togs, towel, sunscreen, water bottle and your crew. Free sunscreen and drinking water (refills only, no cups) will be available on the day.

Toilets: Public toilets are available on the Waterfront.

Postponement date: If required due to weather or tide conditions, the event will be postponed to Sunday, 17 January 2027.

Getting there: Free parking all weekend in on-street and council-operated spaces in the city centre. No payment, no stress, just park and go. The closest parking buildings are Dive Crescent, Spring Street and Elizabeth Street, all within easy walking distance of the waterfront.

Accessible parking is available in all parking buildings and on-street locations. For more information and locations, visit the Tauranga Access Map.

Bike parking: If you are biking in, there is free bike parking at the Bikebox shelters located on the Strand opposite Hamilton Street and at 1 Devonport Road near Red Square. Each bike shelter provides weather protection for 10 bikes/scooters and are monitored by CCTV cameras. 

Grab a bus: If you’d like to add to the adventure and travel by bus, check out your local timetable here.