St Clair Beach could be in the mix to host a qualifying event for the World Surf League, but it is understood any discussion would be at an early stage and significant challenges, such as funding, would have to be overcome.
Dunedin might also have to head off a few rivals but, if everything came together, some of the best up-and-coming surfers from Australia and the Asia-Pacific could join Kiwi talent in the surf at St Clair.
Potential for Dunedin to host an international surfing contest was mentioned briefly during a Dunedin City Council workshop last week about festivals and events.
A city council spokeswoman said afterwards the council talked with many promoters and organisers about potential events — some eventuated and some did not.
"We understand the World Surf League may be considering bringing an event to New Zealand, and that Dunedin could be a possible location given our fantastic, consistent surf and proximity to the coast," she said.
Otago high school students preparing for the National Scholastic Surfing Championships are among the people who would like to see a WSL event in Dunedin.
The championships are the pinnacle of junior surfing in New Zealand and St Clair is hosting that event in October.
South Coast Boardriders president Johnny de Graaf said St Clair Beach would have suitable wave conditions for a high-profile event.
"It’s a consistent spot," he said.
"We’ve got so many different breaks in a small area."
Not everybody would relish such a big event being in Dunedin, but Mr de Graaf expected it could also have financial benefits for the city.
"A lot of people would like to come and watch," he said.
Piha, near Auckland, was poised to host a WSL international event in 2020, but it had to be cancelled late in the lead-up because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
It had been expected legend of the sport Kelly Slater would participate in the 2020 Piha Pro.
