Auckland to host World Beard and Moustache Championships

Auckland is set to host the World Beard and Moustache Championships in 2021 with around 500 beardiful contenders expected to compete.

It will be the first time the event will be held in New Zealand. It is traditionally held in North America and Europe.

A competitor at this year's event. Photo / Supplied

Fellowship of the Beard NZ president, Ygnacio Cervio, has worked with the Auckland Convention Bureau (ACB) and Tourism New Zealand to secure the event for Auckland.

"We've wanted to host the world champs here for some time, and we know some competitors will be travelling a fair distance to compete, so want to make their stay unique.

"Our wish is for all of them to have a great time, meet old friends, make new ones and take home the best memories from our vibrant city," Cervio said.

Competitors will be judged in 16 different categories, which include "imperial beard", "Dali moustache" and "crowd favourite".

A competitor sporting a partial beard. Photo / Supplied

ACB spokesperson Anna Hayward said the bid for the event was hairer than usual but was looking forward to the event.

"New Zealand has quite a lively beard and moustache culture and there are plenty of places around Auckland where hair enthusiasts taking part in the competition will feel at home when they visit.

"With a worldwide reputation for superior hospitality, the Auckland experience is one that will endure in the memories of these competitors for many years to come.

"We look forward to welcoming the bearded community to our beautiful city in 2021," Hayward said.

For more information visit the event Facebook page.