Hawke’s Bay’s best bomb: Hastings Manu Comp set for splashy return

Epic bombs and huge splashes are expected in Hawke’s Bay this weekend with the return of the Heretaunga Hastings Manu Comp.

This Saturday at the Havelock North Village Pool, an expert panel of local judges will select the Bay’s best bombers in age divisions starting from age 8 years and up, with competitors leaping from a 1.5m platform.

Judges include Hawke’s Bay Magpies player Maiti Leef, Health Hawke’s Bay advisor Sahn Whiunui, and Higher Clothing & H.Sportswear owner Benjamin Friday.

Event director Scott Rice said the judges will be looking at splash height and creativity.

“It’s what you do between the board and the water, whether it be a back flip or throwing a mana wave or whatever, but mostly splash height,” Rice said.

There’s also an all-ages freestyle division for those looking to showcase their creativity and flair, and a Push Play session before and after the competition so everyone can have a go.

A manu ‘bomb’ involves a v-shape technique, with the tailbone/lower back entering the water first.

“[Freestyle] is a division where they can do any bomb but a manu, so staples, gorillas, coffins, all that kind of stuff,” Rice said.

Preregistration is open at manuworldchamps.com, which Rice says is the best way to book your spot in the competition, but registrations open at the pool 10.30am on Saturday.

The top bombs for each category win prizes plus automatic qualification for the Z Manu World Champs Grand Final in Auckland in March 2025.

“Whether they want to have a go in the competition side of it or they just want to have a go in the Push Play session, or they just want to watch some of the best bombs in the Bay – it’ll be a cool day out.”

Jack Riddell is a multimedia journalist with Hawke’s Bay Today and spent the last 15 years working in radio and media in Auckland, London, Berlin, and Napier. He reports on all stories relevant to residents of the region, along with pieces on art, music, and culture.