Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale leading off the wharf during the Z Manu World Champs Qualifier in Tauranga. Photo / Supplied
Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale leading off the wharf during the Z Manu World Champs Qualifier in Tauranga. Photo / Supplied
The final Z Manu World Champs qualifier drew a lively and enthusiastic crowd to the Tauranga Moana waterfront at the weekend.
Competitors of all ages battled it out for the local titles and a place in the grand final of the Z Manu World Champs in March 2026.
EvenTauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale took part at the Tauranga Moana Manu Champs, organised and funded by Tauranga City Council.
Drysdale joined former All Black and current Tauranga City councillor Kevin “Herb” Schuler, much to the delight of the crowd, event organisers said in a statement this week.
“It’s fantastic to see councils developing and delivering such strong, water-centric community events,” Z Manu World Champs director Scott Rice said.
“Of course, Tauranga took it one step further – with its mayor showing his passion for the event by demonstrating his own manu technique for the crowd.
“Unfortunately the splash heights measured for Mahé Drysdale and Kevin Schuler did not reach qualifying heights for the final – but it was awesome to see them there having a go – having fun and participation is what it is all about at a community level," Rice joked.
“We can’t wait to see how Tauranga finalists go up against the rest of our manu talent in March.”
Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale competing in the Z Manu World Champs Qualifier in Tauranga. Photo / Supplied
Shakhaylia “Shak” Dawson was a standout and a familiar face having competed and placed many times over the years, progressing from youth female winner to competing at the adult level.
Shak secured first place in the Tauranga adults female division and will be heading to Auckland.
It won’t be her first time at the final. In 2024, she placed third nationally in the adult female category.
Winners from the Tauranga event would join winners from the Hastings and Dunedin qualifiers already held, to take part in the national grand final alongside Manu athletes from across New Zealand and the first international qualifier on the Gold Coast.
The Z Manu World Champs qualifier was hosted in Tauranga at the weekend.
In Tauranga, event partners Push Play and Water Safety New Zealand were actively involved throughout the day, highlighting the importance of water safety and encouraging Kiwis to stay active.
Water Safety New Zealand chief executive Glen Scanlon said the Z Manu World Champs were a great way to celebrate staying active and having fun in the water while prioritising safety, particularly as summer unfolds.
Eru Ryder won the manu adults - male category of the Z Manu World Champs Qualifier in Tauranga.
After a short break, the championship resumes in Auckland at Māngere on January 10, before heading to Whangārei on January 17, Hamilton on January 24 and 25, and Wellington on January 31, with the first international qualifier taking place on the Gold Coast on Waitangi Day weekend.
2025 Tauranga Z Manu World Champs Qualifier winners
