Last updated on December 18th, 2023 at 11:12 am
If you are looking for the best surf spots in New Zealand, you came to the right place. In this surf guide to New Zealand, you will find all the information you need for your next surf trip, including travel tips, surf seasons, and the best surf beaches in New Zealand.
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About Surfing in New Zealand
If you are like most people, surfing in New Zealand was never really on your checklist. Sure, you heard there are some waves there, and maybe you saw some pictures, but somehow, you always travel to other places. It might be the long distance, or it might be the cold water, but one thing is sure- New Zealand is one of the best surf destinations in the world, and it’s relatively empty.
New Zealand is a breathtaking country in the Pacific Ocean, South East of Australia. It consists of 2 major Islands- the North Island, which is the warmer one, and the colder South Island. New Zealand is known for being an “extreme sports capital”, and for its wild nature. For instance, earthquakes, active volcanoes, and hot springs are standard here.
With about 10,000 miles (15,000 KM) of coastline and countless small bays and capes, New Zealand is a hidden surf paradise. Therefore, when surfing in New Zealand, you get a huge selection of surf spots to choose from. Moreover, it has a wide variety of point breaks, reef breaks, and beach breaks, and some of them are world-class.
In short, New Zealand is a much-underrated surf destination. It is home to several perfect surf spots and unbelievably empty lineups. For that reason, before it gets too popular, now it’s the time to surf in New Zealand.
The Best Surf Spots in New Zealand
Amazingly, the variety of surf spots in New Zealand is huge. In fact, most of the breaks are secret or at least undiscovered. Due to its nicer climate, the North Island is more developed and surf-oriented. Therefore, most people who surf in New Zealand will hang out on this Island. On the other hand, the South Island is wild and rough, and although some of the best surf spots in New Zealand are found here, you will be riding alone on most waves.
So, in detail, these are the main surf spots in New Zealand:
Surf Spots in New Zealand’s North Island
Shipwreck Bay:
Break type- Point break.
Skill level- Intermediate.
Description- Way up North, next to the town of Ahipara, you will find it, maybe the most epic surf spot in New Zealand. Moreover, Shipwreck is considered one of the best left-hand point breaks in the whole world. When a big swell hits the shore, you can get unbelievably long rides. Therefore, this spot is a must for anyone who comes to surf in New Zealand.
90 Miles Beach:
Break type- Beach break.
Skill level- Beginner to intermediate.
Description- Just a short drive north from Shipwreck, this beach strip offers multiple peaks over a sandy bottom. Actually, it is perfect for beginners and intermediates and also for those who are looking for an empty lineup.
Rawara Beach:
Break type- Beach break.
Skill level- All levels.
Description- This beautiful bay in the northeast part of the country offers excellent surfing. It is a typical beach break with multiple peaks to choose from.
Great Barrier Island:
Break type- Points and beach breaks.
Skill level- All levels.
Description- This Island is located about 100 KM northeast of Auckland. Therefore, you must take a 4-hour ferry ride (or a short flight) to get here. Your reward for your effort will be beautiful waves with hardly any crowds. The best break on the Island is definitely Whangapoua. However, you can also find great waves at Medlands and Awana.
Te Arai:
Break type- Beach break.
Skill level- All levels.
Description- Situated on the East Coast, this beach break offers consistent waves with hardly any crowds.
Piha:
Break type- Beach break.
Skill level- All levels.
Description- This black sand beach on the West Coast of Auckland is one of the most popular surf beaches in New Zealand. Due to its high quality and location near the city, it can get very crowded, especially on weekends.
Muriwai:
Break type- Beach break.
Skill level- Intermediate to advanced.
Description- Another popular spot on Auckland’s West Coast. The wave here is pretty steep and opens up to both the right and left sides.
Hot Water Beach:
Break type- Beach break.
Skill level- Intermediate to advanced.
Description- East of Auckland, next to the town of Coromandel, this beach is known for its hot springs. However, you can get some pretty good barrels when the right swell arrives.
Manu Bay, Raglan:
Break type- Point break.
Skill level- Advanced.
Description- About 2 hours south of Auckland, Raglan is a great surf town to visit and stay in. Around its area, there are several great breaks and also one of the best waves on the planet, Manu Bay. This left-hand point break is absolutely a “surfing Mecca”, and on a good day, it produces up to 2KM long rides. Although it can get crowded, this world-class wave must be on your list, as it’s the most famous surf spot in New Zealand.
Surf Highway 45, Taranaki:
Break type- Beach break.
Skill level- All levels.
Description- This long beach strip on the West Coast offers several great surf spots. Actually, if you cruise around this beach, you can stop your car at any random spot and score fantastic waves almost every single time. The best breaks in this area are Ahu Ahu, Kumera Patch, Graveyards, Opunake Beach, Fitzroy Beach, and Stent Road.
Castle Point:
Break type- Beach break.
Skill level- Beginner to intermediate.
Description- The biggest advantage of this beach break is that it is well protected from winds. Therefore, if you get a windy day and the other spots are too choppy, you can ride a clean A-frame break here.
Wellington:
Break type- Beach break.
Skill level- All levels.
Description- The capital of New Zealand is exposed to south swells. Therefore, when one of these hits the shore, you can surf in several different breaks in this area. Liall Bay is probably the best one around.
Surf Spots in New Zealand’s South Island
Mangamaunu:
Break type- Point break.
Skill level- Advanced.
Description- Just next to Kaikoura, this is the best right-hand surf spot in New Zealand. Due to its perfect waves, it is also known as the “Malibu of New Zealand”. This world-class point break produces exceptionally long rides and is suitable for advanced surfers only.
Dunedin:
Break type- Beach break.
Skill level- All levels.
Description- Just next to town, St Clair Beach offers an excellent beach break with many different peaks. Due to its location in the south, it is cold here, but it is also very consistent.
Colac Bay, Southland:
Break type- Beach break.
Skill level- All levels.
Description- This is one of the most southern surf spots in New Zealand, and actually, in the whole world. You will probably not make it this far while surfing in New Zealand, but just in case you do, make sure you have at least a 4-MM wetsuit. The waves here are pretty good and suitable for all skill levels.
If you are new to surfing and looking for beginner waves, check out our post about the best beginner surf beaches in New Zealand.
Surf Seasons in New Zealand
Luckily, you can surf New Zealand year-round and consistently score good waves. Since the swell can hit the shore from North, South, East, or West, some beaches will always produce good waves, regardless of the swell direction. That being said, there is a difference in swell size and weather conditions between the 2 major seasons.
In general, the waves are bigger and more consistent during winter, from April to November. In the peak of the season, July and August, you can expect massive swells almost daily. However, this is also the time when the weather is freezing, and the water as well. Therefore, unless you are a big wave surfer, you will enjoy much more if you go during summer, or at least spring or fall, when conditions are more convenient.
Regarding the water temperature, it ranges from 12°C in July to 21°C in January. The air temp goes from 20°C to 30°C during summer to below 0 in winter. Remember, both the air and the water are warmer on the North Island. Therefore, on the North Island, a 2/3 MM wetsuit will be enough, but in the south, you will need a 3/4 MM during summer and at least 5 MM during winter.
Surf Camps in New Zealand
If you are a beginner making his first steps in the surfing world, the best way to explore the surf beaches of New Zealand is at a surf camp. So, these are the most recommended surf camps in New Zealand:
1. Up Surf Coaching, Raglan– The camp focuses on creating coaching methods to fast-track the progress of beginners, intermediate-level surfers, and also experienced ones.
For more details about surf camps in New Zealand, please click here.
2. Aotearoa Surf School, Te Arai– Whether you want to start surfing from scratch, organize a team-building weekend away for your staff, or give your children the experience of a lifetime at the summer camp, Aotearoa Surf School can cater to your every need.
For more details about the best surf camps in New Zealand, please click here.
3. Muriwai Surf School– The camp offers coaching programs for surfers of all skill levels on Auckland’s beautiful West Coast.
For more details about camps, retreats, and hotels, please click here.
Surf Hotels in New Zealand
When coming to surf in New Zealand, you want to stay as close as possible to the best surf spots. So, these are some of the most recommended surf hotels in the country:
1. Surf Fortress, Raglan– The hotel offers accommodation in Raglan, 2.9 km from Ngarunui Beach. The accommodation is less than 1 km from Manu Bay Beach, and guests benefit from complimentary WiFi and on-site private parking.
2. SURF BREAK ON STENT– Offering free WiFi and sea views, SURF BREAK ON STENT is an accommodation situated in Okato. Set 39 km from Yarrow Stadium, the property offers a garden and free private parking.
3. Pakiri Beach Holiday Park, Te Arai– Take in stunning views of the beach, which is within a 2-minute walk from Pakiri Beach Holiday Park. Located in Pakiri, in the Auckland region, this property offers a children’s playground and free private parking.
For more accommodation options check out our post about the best surf hotels in New Zealand, or simply look for deals on Booking.com.
What Skill Level is Required to Surf in New Zealand
There is an incredible selection of surf spots in New Zealand, so surfers of all levels can find waves that suit their skills. For instance, beginners can surf mellow waves in spots like Castle Point or 90 Miles Beach. Intermediate surfers, though, will find more challenging waves in spots like Shipwreck and Te Arai. And finally, if you are an advanced surfer, you can ride epic barrels at Manu Bay in Raglan.
Which Location in New Zealand is Best to Stay At
On a surf trip, it is best to focus on one area to spend more time surfing and less traveling. However, there are many great surf beaches in New Zealand, and sometimes it can be hard to choose where to stay. So, considering the waves and the general atmosphere of the place, these are the most recommended places to stay at:
1. Raglan– Here, you will find Manu Bay, the best surf spot in New Zealand, and a few beginner spots.
2. Te Arai– Here, you will find consistent waves and several surf camps.
3. 90-mile beach– The area is abundant with many beautiful breaks and is also close to the famous Shipwreck.
4. Muriwai– Its proximity to Auckland and to nearby Piha makes Muriwai a popular surf beach.
New Zealand- Travel Information
Language– English.
Population– about 5 million.
Currency– New Zealand dollar.
Calling code– +64.
Time zone– GMT +13.
Pros– perfect point breaks, low crowds, wild nature.
Cons– Cold water and long flights from most countries.
Conclusion- Final Thought
To sum up, surfing in New Zealand, unfortunately, is not on the bucket list of most surfers. Usually, they prefer the more popular surf destinations in this part of the globe, such as Indonesia, or even the Philippines. However, that’s a huge advantage for those who actually come here, as they get to surf perfect point breaks with minimal crowds. Sure, the flight is long from most countries, and a wetsuit is required, but when you ride a 1-minute long glassy wall, who cares about the rest?
We hope you enjoyed reading this guide to the best surf spots in New Zealand. Have a great surf trip!
Finally, if you are looking for other surf destinations in the Pacific Ocean, head north to Fiji, or even further to Tahiti.
