Kite-surf Mangawhai Heads Estuary

Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Expert Type: Lagoon Water type: Shallow, Flat, Chop Water hazards: Ships Water quality: Clean Infos: Best on mid to high tide. A bit choppier on high tide but flat behind sand bar. Beach type & size: Grass, Sand - Depending on Tide Infos: Can pump up on grass near the car park even at high tide. Car park does flood on king tides so be careful about where you park then. Tricky to self launch on grass directly by water as houses close by, but ok to launch from grass if you have someone to launch you. There is a bird sanctuary across the estuary so read the signs about this - dont want kiting banned like in other places. Beachgoer: January, February, December Wind specificities: Can also kite this spot on N wind but gustier. Can kite on SW if go around the corner. Access description: by Car - Parking at Lincoln St Reserve. Campgrounds nearby but really need a car to get to spot. Specific rules: Zones Extra: Read signs about bird sanctuary which is the big sandbar across the estuary. Dont land kites there. Nightlife: Shops & restaurants on Wood St at Heads or at Village. Mangawhai Tavern has bands sometimes. Accommodations: Parking