One of the biggest surf events seen in New Zealand, the Corona Piha Pro, has been postponed due to concerns over the coronavirus.
Surfing legend Kelly Slater will compete in New Zealand for the first time since 1993. Photo: Supplied: Piha Pro
The World Surf League (WSL) has decided to postpone all events in March.
"Coronavirus is having massive consequences for sporting events and gatherings of all kinds around the world, and we are no different," WSL chief executive Erik Logan said.
"We did not take this decision lightly as we are aware that it has a significant impact on the surfing community. However, the health and safety of our athletes, fans, and staff are paramount. We've been in close contact with our athletes and we feel strongly that this is the right thing to do right now."
Top World Surf League events haven't been to New Zealand for five years.
Eleven-time world champion Kelly Slater had already touched down in the country for the competition this weekend.
The Pro event was also one of the key lead-up tournaments for New Zealand surfers aiming to compete at the Tokyo Olympics - the first time that surfing has featured at an Olympics.
Read more about the Covid-19 coronavirus:
- Covid-19: What you need to know
- Self isolation - your questions answered
- Touching your Face: Why do we do it and how to stop
- Scientific hand-washing advice to avoid infection
- More Covid-19 news
More to come...
