Former All Blacks halfback Piri Weepu has signed up to compete in the manu world champs next month ― to raise awareness of water safety this summer.
The championships will feature five regional qualifiers around the country before a grand final in Auckland in March.
Judges will be able to use 'ManuTech', developed by AUT, to determine the country's best manu divers.
AUT human performance professor Patria Hume told 1News last month that photos from each jump will be sent through the system measuring the exact height and width of the splash to determine its volume. For the grand final, ManuTech will also measure the sound, or "pop", each jumper makes.
Weepu will take part in the Wellington qualifier in late January with the hope of making the grand final in Auckland.
"I think I've got a pretty mean manu," Weepu said. "But if I don't make the final, I’ll still be there to support and celebrate the art of the manu, and check out some serious skills in action.
“Manu is something that we all love and have been doing for years in spots around the country. Manu skills are passed from person to person. Mine aren’t too bad - but we’ll see how we go.
Weepu said Māori have a special connection to water, including as a source of kai. "But, we’re also masters at the manu. The Manu World Champs are a chance to share that knowledge ― and show how to put safety first whilst having fun.”
Ex-Navy diver and water safety advocate Rob Hewitt is also involved as an ambassador for the event, and has his own harrowing tale of 75 hours lost at sea.
"These Manu World Champs provide an opportunity to come together and put on a spectacular show for spectators – perfected through hard mahi over the years and knowledge passed through generations," Hewitt said.
"We’ve all learnt to manu from watching someone else. We can also demonstrate that knowledge around water safety."
Organiser Scott Rice said it was a "great honour" to have Weepu and Hewitt supporting the event.
Registrations for qualifiers in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Hamilton are now open here.
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