Surfing in New Zealand
Since the 1960's, when American surf culture undoubtedly boosted its popularity here, surfing in New Zealand has grown to become one of New Zealand's favourite recreational activities. We certainly have the climate and the waves for it!
For many young New Zealanders living close to the best beaches, surfing is a way of life. Summer is obviously the best time to surf in New Zealand, but the mild, temperate New Zealand climate makes it possible to surf in New Zealand all year round, although a wet suit is recommended for the cooler months.
So, wax down your surfboard and head to New Zealand's superb beaches for some surf and sun, kiwi style.
New Zealand Surfing Spots
While Raglan, on the Waikato Coast, has achieved legendary status thanks to its epic left-hand point break and a feature in The Endless Summer, other places such as The Coromandel, Mount Maunganui, Gisborne and the Wairarapa coast also produce truly pumping wave action when conditions are right.
Other locations with reputations for great surf in New Zealand include Waipu Cove, south of Whangarei, and in the South Island, Kaikoura (famous for its whale watching activities) and Dunedin. Check the local New Zealand surfing shops for the best information on where to go.
Surf Safety Tips
- Many beaches look safe but are deceptively dangerous due to strong currents under the surface (rips or undertows). When swimming at surf beaches, always look for a beach patrolled by surf lifeguards, and always swim between the flags where the lifeguards can keep an eye on you.
- If a beach is not patrolled by lifeguards, check whether it is safe with local information sources before entering the water. Never swim alone and if in any doubt, stay out of the water.
- Rip currents are common features on many beaches. They can be recognised by a calm patch on a surf beach or discoloured water - DO NOT SWIM THERE.
- If you get caught in a rip and find yourself being dragged further away from the beach, don't fight the current directly - you will only tire more quickly.
- Swim along the beach (parallel with it) and head for the nearest breaking waves as these indicate shallower water.
Click here to view tourism operators for surfing in New Zealand.
