The sun has risen on Manu Bay as the world's best surfers take on the Raglan swell.
For the next 11 days the best of the best will compete in the fourth stop of the World Surf League Championship Tour.
It marks the first time New Zealand has hosted a combined men's and women's Championship Tour event, and it's expected to draw thousands of spectators to the Waikato town.
Local coffee business Raglan Roast is excited to see all the fresh faces and revenue this event will bring, said Esther Keown.
"To have this many people come to Raglan, all the people that are going to be spending money, having a good time, will help local businesses, local people who are putting their houses up for people to stay."
She was expecting to be kept busy serving thousands of coffees a day.
Some of New Zealand's finest will be taking on Manu Bay's famous left-hand breaks, including two-time Olympian Billy Stairmand and Raglan's own 15-year-old Alani Morse. Morse won a wildcard spot in the competition and said she's proud to be representing New Zealand in her own backyard.
"I'm just thrilled to be here, this is such a cool opportunity. I'm just soaking it all in, and learning as I go."
She said sitting out on the water next to world number ones has been inspiring and seeing the impact on her community had been great.
"Our family's just super stoked, I'm super stoked, the communities stoked, we're all just so excited."
Local surf instructor Pipiri Kelly has been surfing at Manu Bay his whole life and he's excited to see how the best tackle it.
"It's very inspiring to see the world's best perform at your home break. It's very inspiring to see the lines they take and what they're actually able to do."
The event is supported by the Government's Events Attraction Package.
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