If surfing is your passion, you'll love New Zealand. You're always close to the sea, and chances are, there's a great surf break not far along the coast.

With an astonishing 15,000 kilometres of coastline featuring a variety of breaks, waves, points and reefs, it’s no wonder New Zealand is a world-class surfing destination.

It’s as though nature designed the New Zealand coastline with surfers in mind. Tiny coves, long sandy beaches and sandbars and reefs - the diversity and consistency of surfing conditions here is as remarkable as the stunning coastline itself.

Surfing Ōhope Beach sunrise
Bay of Plenty
Surfing Ōhope Beach sunrise, Bay of Plenty

Where to Surf?

Surfing the North of New Zealand: Northland, Auckland, Waikato

Head out of Auckland and right away you will have a choice of East or West Coast surfing. Muriwai and Piha on the West Coast offer black sand beaches with wild waves. In the far north is Shipwreck Bay which is definitely worth a visit - if not for the waves then the blokarting, kayaking and 4WD beach tours along Ninety Mile Beach to Cape Reinga.

Surfing at sunset
Tairāwhiti Gisborne
Surfing at sunset, Tairāwhiti Gisborne

Safety on New Zealand Beaches

New Zealand swells can be rough and conditions on the coast can change quickly. Try a surf lesson where instructors share their knowledge and expertise on safety while also teaching you the basics of how to surf a wave. It’s a good idea to talk with locals about conditions, especially life guards or surf tour operators. When swimming on patrolled beaches stay between the flags and surf in groups for safety and fun.

Gisborne is home to some of the best breaks in the country.
Tairāwhiti Gisborne
Gisborne is home to some of the best breaks in the country., Tairāwhiti Gisborne

When to Go

New Zealand’s mild maritime climate and consistent waves make it a great year-round surfing destination, although water temperatures vary by location and season. In the far north, where the climate is subtropical, a thin 3/2 wetsuit can be worn year-round and may not be needed in summer (December to February). The farther south you go, the colder it will get, requiring a 5/4 hooded wetsuit with gloves and booties during winter.

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