Surf Camps in Waikato

Waikato, home to the legendary surf town of Raglan, offers some of the most consistent and user-friendly waves in New Zealand. With its world-famous long left-hand point breaks, it's a must-visit for any surfer exploring the North Island.

Welcome to the Land of the Long Lefts

Waikato, and specifically the laid-back town of Raglan, is the jewel in New Zealand's surfing crown. Just a couple of hours' drive from Auckland, this region is legendary for its incredibly long, peeling left-hand point breaks that can connect for hundreds of meters on a good day. The vibe here is pure surf culture, attracting a steady stream of international travelers and Kiwi surfers alike, all looking to score a piece of the magic.

The Waves

Waikato's coastline is a playground of points, beach breaks, and rivermouths, with something for everyone.

The Points of Raglan

The main drawcard is the series of left-hand point breaks near Raglan. Manu Bay, the most famous of the bunch, is a world-class wave that can offer rides of up to two kilometers. Further along, you'll find Whale Bay and Indicators, which are faster, more critical, and offer some of the longest rides in the world. These points work on a variety of swell and wind combinations, but a solid southwest swell and an offshore easterly wind is the recipe for perfection.

Beyond the Points

While Raglan gets most of the attention, there's plenty more to explore. Port Waikato to the north offers a mix of beach breaks and a rivermouth setup that can produce fun waves. To the south, you'll find more remote and less crowded beach breaks like Ruapuke. These spots are often more exposed to the swell and can be a good option when the points are small.

Best Time to Go

Waikato gets consistent swell year-round, thanks to its exposure to the Tasman Sea. The summer months (December-February) are popular for their warm water and holiday atmosphere, but the waves can be smaller and the crowds thicker. For the best chance of scoring classic Raglan, autumn (March-May) and spring (September-November) are your best bets. The swells are more consistent, the winds are often favorable, and the crowds are a little thinner. Winter (June-August) can also be epic, with powerful swells, but you'll need a good wetsuit to brave the cold water.

Who's it For?

Waikato has something for everyone. The main beach at Ngarunui is a great place for beginners to learn, with a number of surf schools offering lessons and board hire. Intermediate surfers will love the long, user-friendly walls of Manu Bay, while advanced surfers can test their skills at the faster, more hollow sections of Indicators.

What Makes Waikato Special?

It's the combination of world-class waves, stunning scenery, and a relaxed, welcoming surf community that makes Waikato so special. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time surfer, a trip to this wave-rich region is an experience you'll never forget.