When it comes to surfing, New Zealand is a unique and exciting destination that should be on every surfer’s bucket list. With a population of just over 5 million people, the country is known as the land of the Kiwis and is home to some of the best surf spots in the world. From the rugged coastline to the stunning beaches, New Zealand offers a variety of waves suitable for all levels of surfers.
If you’re planning a surf trip to New Zealand, there are a few quick facts to keep in mind. English is the official language, and the currency is the New Zealand dollar. The country is also known for its natural wonders, including volcanoes, hot springs, snow-capped mountains, and friendly dolphins. With so much to see and do, New Zealand is the perfect destination for surfers looking to combine their love of the ocean with an adventure of a lifetime.
In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the best surf spots in New Zealand. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, we’ve got you covered. From the famous Raglan to the hidden gems of Taranaki, we’ll highlight the unique characteristics of each surf destination and what makes them worth a visit. So grab your board and let’s dive into the best surf spots in New Zealand!
North Island Surf Spots
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New Zealand’s North Island is a surfer’s paradise, with a variety of surf spots catering to all skill levels. From the busy beaches of Auckland to the uncrowded breaks of Great Barrier Island, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top surf spots on the North Island:
Auckland and Surrounds
Piha Beach is one of the most famous surf spots in New Zealand, offering consistent waves year-round. Te Arai Beach, located just north of Auckland, is another popular spot with a long sandy beach and multiple peaks to choose from.
Waikato and Bay of Plenty
Raglan is the jewel of the Waikato region, with Manu Bay offering the longest left-hand break in the country. Mount Maunganui is a popular destination for surfers and non-surfers alike, with a bustling beach town and consistent waves.
Northland and Far North
Shipwreck Bay in Ahipara is a must-visit for any surfer, with a long sandy beach and consistent waves. Ninety Mile Beach is another popular spot, offering a variety of breaks and uncrowded waves.
Taranaki Region
Taranaki Surf Highway 45 is a surfer’s dream, with multiple breaks along the coast and stunning views of Mount Taranaki. New Plymouth’s Ahu Ahu Beach is a popular spot with locals and visitors alike.
Gisborne and East Cape
Gisborne is known for its busy surf breaks, with locals and mates sharing the waves. Wainui Beach is a popular spot with multiple peaks to choose from, while the nearby town of Tolaga Bay offers uncrowded waves.
Coromandel Peninsula
Whangapoua Bay is a hidden gem, offering uncrowded waves and stunning scenery. Hot Water Beach is another popular spot, with a unique feature of hot springs bubbling up through the sand.
Great Barrier Island
Great Barrier Island is a remote and uncrowded destination, offering a variety of breaks along its coastline. With limited access and unpredictable weather, it’s best to plan ahead and bring all necessary surf equipment.
Wellington
Lyall Bay is the closest surf spot to the city, offering consistent waves and surf schools for beginners. The nearby point break at Island Bay is a more advanced spot, with larger waves and a longer ride.
Quick Facts about North Island
- The North Island has over 15,000 km of coastline, with a variety of surf breaks to choose from.
- Surfboards and wetsuits can be rented from most surf shops and beachside towns.
- The North Island is home to some of the longest left-hand breaks in the world.
- Some surf spots can get busy with locals and visitors, so be respectful and follow surf etiquette.
- Many surf breaks are located near pubs and restaurants, offering a great opportunity to meet like-minded surfers and get local knowledge.
South Island Surf Spots
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If you’re looking for some of the best surf spots in New Zealand, the South Island is definitely worth exploring. With a diverse range of surf breaks, from beach breaks to reefs, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top surf spots in the South Island.
Canterbury
Christchurch and the surrounding Canterbury region offer some of the most popular surf spots in the South Island. Sumner Beach, located just 15 minutes from the city center, is a great spot for beginners and intermediate surfers. For more advanced surfers, check out the long peaks of New Brighton.
Otago and Southland
The Otago and Southland regions, located in the southern part of the South Island, offer some of the most consistent surf breaks in New Zealand. The Otago Peninsula is home to several popular surf spots, including Boulder Beach and St. Clair Beach. In Southland, check out the beach breaks at Waipapa Point and the reef breaks at Porridge.
Kaikoura
Kaikoura, located on the east coast of the South Island, is a rugged and remote area that offers some incredible waves. Mangamaunu Bay is one of the most famous surf spots in New Zealand, with consistent waves that can reach up to 20 feet. For more experienced surfers, check out the challenging breaks at Meatworks and Graveyards.
Queenstown and Fiordland
While not known for its surfing, the Queenstown and Fiordland regions offer some unique surf breaks for adventurous surfers. The remote beaches of Fiordland offer some uncrowded beach breaks, while Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown provides some interesting wave-riding opportunities.
Quick Facts about South Island
- The South Island has a diverse range of surf breaks, from beach breaks to reefs.
- The most popular surf spots in the South Island are located in the Canterbury region, around Christchurch.
- The Otago and Southland regions offer some of the most consistent surf breaks in New Zealand.
- Kaikoura is a rugged and remote area that offers some incredible waves for experienced surfers.
- While not known for its surfing, the Queenstown and Fiordland regions offer some unique surf breaks for adventurous surfers.
Surfing Tips and Etiquette in New Zealand
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If you’re planning to surf in New Zealand, there are a few tips and etiquette rules you should know to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Respect the Locals
New Zealand has a tight-knit surfing community, and locals take pride in their surf spots. It’s important to respect their territory and follow their lead when it comes to surfing etiquette. If you’re unsure about the rules, don’t be afraid to ask.
Be Mindful of Crowds
Some of the most popular surf spots in New Zealand can get crowded, especially during peak season. Be mindful of other surfers and give them plenty of space. Don’t drop in on someone else’s wave, and avoid snaking or cutting in front of other surfers.
Follow Surfing Etiquette
Following surfing etiquette is crucial to maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone. Some basic rules to follow include:
- Don’t ditch your board
- Don’t snake or drop in on someone else’s wave
- Don’t hog all the waves
- Don’t litter
Choose the Right Surfboard
Choosing the right surfboard is crucial, especially for beginners. If you’re just starting out, opt for a longboard or a foam board. These are easier to paddle and provide more stability. If you’re more experienced, consider a shortboard or a fish for more maneuverability.
Look for Uncrowded Waves
New Zealand has plenty of uncrowded surf spots if you’re willing to explore a bit. Look for A-frame waves or river mouths for some of the best uncrowded spots.
By following these tips and etiquette rules, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful surf spots in New Zealand safely and respectfully.
Best Time to Surf in New Zealand
New Zealand is a great destination for surfing, with surf spots located all along its extensive coastline. However, the best time to surf in New Zealand depends on several factors, such as the region, swell, and weather conditions.
The winterless north of New Zealand is the best place to surf year-round, as it experiences mild temperatures and consistent waves. In contrast, the South Island has more extreme weather conditions, with colder temperatures and rougher seas during the winter months.
If you plan to surf in the North Island, the best time to visit is during the months of November to April when the water is warmer and the waves are more consistent. On the other hand, the South Island is best visited during the months of March to November when the swell is larger and the beaches are less crowded.
It’s important to note that New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable, and rain can affect surf conditions. However, this shouldn’t discourage you from surfing in New Zealand, as the country has some of the most beautiful and uncrowded surf spots in the world.
Overall, the best time to surf in New Zealand is during the shoulder seasons when the weather is milder, and the waves are more consistent. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, New Zealand has something to offer for everyone.
