Get ready for a thrilling ride as we dive into the world of longboard surfing! The 2026 NZ Festival of Longboarding has just crowned its champions, and the results are nothing short of extraordinary.
Jaxon Willows, the rising star from Mount Maunganui, has dominated the festival, securing back-to-back wins in both the Men's and Juniors divisions. But here's where it gets controversial... Willows, at just 17 years old, outperformed seasoned veterans with years of experience under their belts. Imagine the confidence and skill it takes to surf against the likes of Matt Newdick, Dylan Barnfield, and Matt Cockayne, and still come out on top!
And this is the part most people miss: the swell conditions played a crucial role. With the waves sticking below the 1.0m mark, the organizers made a bold decision to continue the event on Saturday evening, capitalizing on a clean swell and a late afternoon low tide.
Te Waiotu Fairlie, or Tologa, joined Willows in the winner's circle, claiming the Women's Division title. Fairlie's journey is an inspiring one, having overcome a challenging year to trust in her abilities and emerge victorious.
But the festival wasn't just about the main events. Morgan Bramley took the Over 50 Men's Division, while long-time participant Wyn Hoogerbrugge claimed the Over 40 Men's Longboard Division. Bryan Young, with a solid 12.50 point heat total, dominated the Over 60s Division, proving that age is just a number when it comes to surfing prowess.
The Under 18 categories provided some intense moments. Willows, with his critical nose riding and fancy footwork, scored an impressive 17.66 points, leaving his competitors in the dust. In the Girls' division, Izaro Williamson Sasia and Emma Lay put on a show, with Sasia's last-wave heroics securing her the win.
The New Zealand Longboard Series, comprising six events, showcases the best of longboard surfing across the country. From the National Championships in Gisborne to the Ray White Duke Festival of Surfing, these events celebrate the sport's rich culture and talent.
So, what do you think? Is longboard surfing an art form that deserves more recognition? Or are you more interested in the strategy and skill that goes into these competitions? Feel free to share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below! We'd love to hear from you!
