Tawharanui - New Zealand Tawharanui features a beach break with both right and left waves, characterized by a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The spot is accessible via a short walk from the car park, making it convenient for surfers. It works well at all tides, with optimal conditions when the swell comes from the north, east, or northeast, and wind from the west or southwest. This picturesque location is ideal for families, offering stunning views, rock pools, and camping opportunities. However, it can become crowded on weekends and holidays, particularly in the main area in front of the car park, where surfers, boarders, and swimmers converge. While the waves can be powerful and fun, surfers should remain vigilant for potential hazards, including rocks and the occasional shark. Overall, Tawharanui is a vibrant surf spot that caters to various skill levels, but caution is advised due to the presence of learner surfers.
View spotShipwrecks Bay (Wreck Bay) - Ahipara, New Zealand Shipwreck Bay features a left-point break with a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The waves are best at low to mid tide, with optimal conditions arising from a southwest swell. The surf is hollow, fast, and powerful, making it suitable for various skill levels, though it can be tiring due to the need to walk back around the point. Located at the southern end of Ninety Mile Beach, Shipwreck Bay is easily accessible from Ahipara, just a short walk from parking and camping areas. The bay catches southwest swells effectively, providing reliable surf conditions. However, it can become crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Surfers should be cautious of strong rips and undertows. With a picturesque setting and excellent fish and chips nearby, Shipwreck Bay is a favored spot for both seasoned surfers and beginners looking for a fun day on the waves.
View spotOrewa Beach (The Hidden Gem) - Auckland, New Zealand Orewa Beach features a beach break with both right and left-hand waves over a sandy bottom, offering ordinary power. While not the most consistent surf spot, it can deliver fun sessions, especially during larger swells. The best conditions occur at mid to high tide with a rising tide, particularly when the swell comes from the northeast. Located just north of Auckland, Orewa Beach is ideal for surfers seeking a relaxed atmosphere. The waves are generally small, averaging around 0.3 meters, making it suitable for all skill levels. Access is easy via the Northern Motorway, with ample parking available along the beach. While it can get crowded during summer weekends, weekdays often see fewer surfers. After your session, enjoy the local coastal village's food and drinks, making it a perfect day trip for those strapped for time.
View spotWaikawau Bay - New Zealand Waikawau Bay features a powerful beach break with hollow and fast waves over a sandy bottom. Located approximately 35 minutes from Coromandel Town, it offers instant access with a short walk from the parking area. This surf spot is ideal for those seeking uncrowded conditions, especially during the week when it remains empty. The waves work best with swell and wind from the northwest and northeast, making it a versatile location for surfers of various skill levels. With public access available, Waikawau Bay is a hidden gem for surf enthusiasts looking to escape the crowds and enjoy quality waves in a stunning natural setting.
View spotRaglan - Manu Bay - New Zealand Manu Bay features a long, powerful left reef break over boulders, ideal for performance surfing. The wave is best at low and mid tide, providing hollow and fun conditions. Access is straightforward, with instant entry from the beach, and the spot is known for its consistent swell from the northwest and west. Located near Raglan, this popular surf destination attracts crowds due to its easy parking and accessibility. The Manu Bay Reserve offers a great vantage point to check the surf before paddling out. However, be prepared for territorial locals and crowded line-ups, especially on weekends. Timing is crucial when entering from the rocks to avoid the chaos. While the atmosphere is vibrant, surfers should be mindful of localism and the potential dangers posed by rocks.
View spotWainui Beach - Gisborne Wainui Beach features a beach break with both right and left waves, characterized by a sandy bottom. The waves are known to be hollow, fast, and powerful, making it a thrilling spot for surfers. Optimal conditions occur with a northeast swell at 0.9-1.2 meters and a light offshore northwest wind. The beach is accessible with instant access and public facilities. Located near Gisborne, Wainui is a favorite among locals for its consistent surf and multiple peaks. The crowd is generally sparse during the week, allowing for a more relaxed surfing experience. However, weekends may see a few more surfers. While the waves can be exhilarating, caution is advised due to potential rips and undertows. Surfers should be prepared for varying conditions, as Wainui works well at all tides, making it a versatile choice for surf enthusiasts.
View spotRaglan - Whale Bay Whale Bay features a left-breaking reef wave over a boulder bottom, offering powerful and fun rides. The wave varies with swell size and tide; at low tide and 0.6 to 1.5 meters, it breaks hollow along the rock shelf, while larger swells create a fatter wall in the bay. Caution is advised due to nearby rocks. Located just 5 minutes from Raglan, Whale Bay is a hidden gem often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors. While it can get crowded in summer, it generally offers a more relaxed atmosphere for surfers seeking less competition. The beach's rocky terrain requires careful navigation, especially for newcomers. With favorable wind directions from the southwest and swell from the northwest, Whale Bay provides a great opportunity for intermediate surfers to hone their skills in a less pressured environment.
View spotAnaura Bay - New Zealand Anaura Bay features a beach break with both right and left waves, characterized by a sandy bottom. The waves are generally ordinary to fun, with some powerless sections. Located 45 minutes north of Gisborne, access is straightforward with a 10-minute drive from the turnoff to the beach. The spot offers instant access, requiring less than 5 minutes of walking. Ideal conditions occur with mid-tide during a rising tide, complemented by swells from the south, southeast, east, and northeast, and winds from the north, northwest, west, and southwest. This makes Anaura Bay a versatile surf destination suitable for various skill levels.
View spotFitzroy Beach - New Plymouth Fitzroy Beach features a sandy beach break with fast, hollow waves that break both right and left. The spot is accessible with instant access and works well at all tides, particularly during rising tide conditions. It is known for being crowded, especially in summer, and is located in a sheltered area that mitigates the impact of strong winds. Situated in New Plymouth, Fitzroy Beach is a popular destination for surfers of all skill levels, thanks to its friendly local community and the nearby New Plymouth Surfriders club. The beach is conveniently located in town, making it easy to find, and offers a relaxed atmosphere with ample facilities. While the waves can be challenging, especially during larger swells, the environment remains welcoming for both beginners and experienced surfers alike. The city campsite nearby provides a great option for those wishing to stay close to the surf.
View spotHenderson Beach - Karikari Peninsula Henderson Beach features a powerful beach break with hollow, fun waves breaking both right and left over a sandy bottom mixed with rock. The spot is best surfed at 0.9-1.5 meters, but can handle larger swells. It works well at all tides, particularly with swell from the southeast to northeast and offshore winds from the northwest to southwest. Located on the scenic Karikari Peninsula, Henderson Beach is easily accessible, just a 20-30 minute drive from Ahipara. The beach attracts fewer crowds, making it an excellent choice when nearby spots are flat or blown out. The best A-frame peaks are found a few hundred meters south of the main car park, providing consistent surf conditions. Additionally, nearby beaches like Puheke and Tokerau offer alternative options if conditions at Henderson Beach aren't ideal. Respect the local lineup and enjoy the diverse surf experience this beautiful location has to offer.
View spotTaupo Bay - Northland, New Zealand Taupo Bay features a beach break with both right and left-hand waves over a sandy bottom. The waves are known for being powerful yet fun, making it suitable for various skill levels. Access is straightforward, with instant access available within 5 minutes of parking. Located on the east coast of Northland, Taupo Bay is a scenic surf spot that offers a sheltered environment. While it can be a good place to catch some waves when conditions are favorable, it may not always deliver top-tier surf. The area tends to be empty during the week, with only a few surfers on weekends. Be mindful of potential dangers such as rips, undertow, and rocks. Wind from the west and southwest can enhance the surf experience, making it a worthwhile destination for those looking to enjoy a laid-back surf session.
View spotHaast Beach - New Zealand Haast Beach features a powerful beach break with both right and left waves, breaking over a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The spot is accessible within a 5-minute walk and is located at -43.8511 latitude and 169.0161 longitude. It works well at all tides, making it a versatile surf destination. While often too big for surfing, when conditions align, Haast Beach offers insane pits and fast, ripable walls. The atmosphere is isolated, providing a unique experience for surfers seeking adventure on New Zealand's South Island. Be cautious of rips, undertow, and rocks, and remember to bring your steamer for the chilly waters. This spot is worth a visit for those on a mission around the island, especially when the swell is right.
View spotRaglan - Indicators Indicators features a left-breaking reef wave over a boulder bottom, known for its hollow and powerful sections. The wave breaks in two parts: an outside fast section and an inside walling section. It works best at low and mid tide, with optimal conditions from swells coming from the north, northwest, west, and southwest, and winds from the south and southeast. Located right next to Whale Bay, Indicators is a competitive surf spot that attracts experienced surfers. Access is straightforward, with instant access available and a short walk from parking. The line-up can be crowded, especially during weekends and summer, so be prepared for a challenging environment. Surfers should be aware of their skill level and the presence of rocks, as navigating the waves requires expertise. Overall, Indicators offers long, powerful walls that reward effort with exhilarating rides.
View spotMangawhai Heads - New Zealand Mangawhai Heads features a beach break with both right and left waves, characterized by a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The spot thrives under mid to high tide conditions, particularly when the swell is generated by tropical cyclones or from the north and southeast. Access is straightforward, with instant entry to the surf within a five-minute walk from parking. This popular surf destination on New Zealand's east coast is favored for its consistent waves and stunning scenery. The rivermouth enhances surf conditions, drawing a mix of locals and visitors. While the atmosphere can be lively, especially on good days, expect a crowded lineup, particularly on weekends. Intermediate surfers will find the waves both challenging and enjoyable, but should be prepared for competitive conditions. With a variety of peaks and a vibrant surf culture, Mangawhai Heads is a must-visit for surf enthusiasts.
View spotPauanui - New Zealand Pauanui features a beach break with both left and right-hand waves, characterized by a sandy bottom. This spot is ideal for experienced surfers, offering hollow and fast waves that can reach world-class conditions on good days. The waves break far out, providing ample opportunity for long rides. The atmosphere at Pauanui is inviting, especially for shortboarders and longboarders. Access is straightforward, with a short walk of 5-15 minutes from parking. The beach boasts golden sand and works well at low and mid tides, with rising and falling tide movements. During the week, the crowd is sparse, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking less crowded surf sessions. If you ride the wave too far in, you can easily exit by jumping off the rocks, adding to the convenience of this surf spot.
View spotTakapuna (Takapuna Reef) - Auckland, New Zealand Takapuna features a beach break with both right and left-hand waves over a sandy bottom. The spot is best during northeast swells and works at all tides, particularly on falling tides. Access is easy, with a short walk from the town center, and the best surfing area is located between the bottom of Ewen Street and Hauraki Road. Located just north of Auckland, Takapuna Reef is popular among local surfers, often attracting a crowd, especially on weekends. The reef offers hollow lefts at high tide, while the southern beach provides gentler beach breaks suitable for beginners and longboarders. Be mindful of localism and pollution, and watch out for the channel marker pole, which can pose a hazard. Overall, Takapuna is a great spot for those seeking a mix of challenge and fun waves, with amenities nearby for a full day at the beach.
View spotBreaker Bay - Wellington, New Zealand Breaker Bay features powerful, hollow right-hand reef waves breaking over sharp coral and rocky bottoms. The wave length is approximately 30 meters, with optimal conditions occurring at mid to high tide during rising and falling tides. Access is straightforward, with a carpark located directly above the reef, just a short walk away. This surf spot is known for its heavy waves, particularly when the swell is up, creating short but intense tubes. Located on the easternmost beach of Wellington's south coast, it is about a 15-minute drive from the city. While the wave can be intimidating, it is said that larger swells can offer a safer experience. The area typically sees few surfers on weekends and is often empty during the week, making it an appealing choice for those seeking solitude. However, caution is advised due to the presence of sharp rocks.
View spotLong Bay - Auckland, New Zealand Long Bay features a right-breaking beach break with a sandy bottom, ideal for beginners and those looking to practice. The spot works best at mid tide during rising and falling tides, with optimal conditions when the swell comes from the east or northeast and the wind is from the northeast. Located in the suburb of Torbay, Long Bay is part of a collection of beaches on Auckland's north shore. While the waves can be inconsistent, the southern reef occasionally delivers quality surf when conditions align. The area is quite sheltered, making it a pleasant spot for a day out, complete with a lovely beach and nearby park facilities. Expect a crowd on weekends, as locals flock to enjoy the waves, but weekdays often offer a more tranquil experience. Be mindful of localism in the water, and always check the wave forecast before heading out.
View spotMount Maunganui - New Zealand Mount Maunganui features a beach break with both right and left waves over a sandy bottom. The waves are characterized as ordinary to fun, making it suitable for various skill levels. Access is straightforward, with instant access in under 5 minutes, and public access is available. This surf spot is located at latitude -37.6429 and longitude 176.2026, offering consistent conditions at all tides. The ideal swell direction is from the northeast, complemented by southwest winds. While weekdays see few surfers, weekends can become crowded, so plan accordingly. The combination of rising and falling tides enhances the surf experience, making Mount Maunganui a popular choice for both locals and visitors seeking quality waves.
View spotMukerau Beach (Mukies 2) - New Zealand Mukerau Beach features a left-breaking beach break with a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The waves are known for being fast and fun, but the spot is best surfed at low tide during falling tide conditions. It holds more swell than the more accessible Wreck Bay, but caution is advised when the swell exceeds 2 meters, as it can lead to close-outs. Located 2 kilometers west of Wreck Bay, access requires a long walk over sand and rocks or a 4WD vehicle at lower tides. The atmosphere is peaceful, with few surfers on weekdays and only a handful on weekends. This spot is ideal for intermediates seeking a manageable paddle out and a variety of wave conditions. However, surfers should be aware that the sandy bottom can lead to variable wave quality, so checking conditions beforehand is recommended.
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