The Taranaki Wave Classic was born in 1993, as the Sirocco Expression Session. Biggie Smithers, along with his board brand Sirocco, ran the first wave sailing contest in Taranaki.

The event designed to maximize time on the water for all competitors - this format proved an instant success with 60-70 sailors participating.

By this time Carbon Art had moved into the region and was bringing the latest Maui windsurfing shapes and technology to Taranaki's shores.

In 1998, Carbon Art lifted the load off Biggie shoulders and continued with the event rebranded the Carbon Art Classic. This event continued until 2002 when the Carbon Art Classic was revamped to become the Taranaki Wave Classic we know today.

The Taranaki Wave Classic is all about fun, with an expression session format where competitors free sail in whatever conditions occur at the chosen location for that day.

There are no heats, no man-on-man elimination and no stress. The winner gets glory, while most participants walk away with a spot prize.