Top-ranked surfers from across New Zealand and Australia will battle for international qualifying points and a $12,000 prize pool at Fitzroy Beach this weekend in the Egmont Honey Pro LQS.
The event serves as the final stop of the 2026 World Surf League Australia/Oceania Regional Longboard Qualifying Series.
The highest-ranked eligible surfer will secure a spot on the 2026/2027 WSL Longboard World Tour.
Action on the water begins on Saturday and wraps up on Sunday, with Monday set aside as a reserve day.
Predicted surf conditions point to clean waves up to 1.2 metres on Saturday, followed by cross-shore peaks on Sunday.
Spectators can expect to see world-class talent, including current Australia/Oceania women's number one Luana Matthies and men's number one Nicholas Brewer, both arriving from Queensland.
Strong domestic competition will come from Mount Maunganui's Jaxon Willows (pictured here), ranked third in the region, and Christchurch surfer Jack Tyro, ranked fourth.
Local hopes will rest on Taranaki surfer Izaro Williamson Sasia, who will look to use local knowledge on the familiar Fitzroy waves.
Surfing Taranaki chief executive Craig Williamson told media the competition is a major milestone for the region.
"To have a World Surf League Longboard Qualifying Series event here at Fitzroy is a big moment for our surf community," Williamson said. "People will be able to stand by the beach and watch high-level longboarding in the same waves our local clubs and communities know so well."
Williamson noted the inclusion of pro, junior, and social divisions gives the public plenty of reasons to get involved and support the athletes.
Beyond the surf, the weekend will feature a festival atmosphere. Organisers have planned a mini market, a beachside sauna, and food trucks at Fitzroy.
Several local businesses are also hosting evening events, including a sunset DJ set at Paris Plage, a fundraiser at the Ōakura Boardriders Club, and a Sunday happy hour at Three Sisters Brewery.
Te Puna Umanga Venture Taranaki general manager of destination Janet Reynolds said the classic highlights the region as a year-round visitor drawcard.
"This event will bring visitors into the region during the quieter season, while giving locals another reason to get out, enjoy the atmosphere and experience what makes Taranaki like no other," Reynolds said.
Event organisers advise spectators to check the World Surf League website or the local Instagram page for schedule updates.
Parking near the Beach Street entrance will be limited and restricted to one-way traffic.
Attendees are encouraged to park at the East End Reserve or use the Coastal Walkway to access the beach by foot or bike.
