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.
The best time to surf in Waikato is during the autumn and winter months (March to August) when consistent swells from the Tasman Sea provide the best conditions. Summer (December to February) can also be good, especially on the east coast with cyclone swells, but the west coast is more reliable during the cooler months. For the most consistent waves, plan your trip for the autumn season.
Waikato offers a wide range of surf breaks suitable for all skill levels. Beginners can find gentle waves at places like Ngarunui Beach near Raglan, which is a popular spot for surf schools. Intermediate and advanced surfers will be drawn to the world-famous left-hand point breaks at Raglan, including Manu Bay, Whale Bay, and Indicators. There are also numerous other beach breaks and rivermouths to explore.
The water temperature in Waikato varies throughout the year. In the summer months (December-February), the water is at its warmest, averaging around 20-22°C (68-72°F). In the winter (June-August), the water temperature drops to a chilly 13-15°C (55-59°F). A good wetsuit is essential for surfing in Waikato, especially during the colder months. We recommend a 3/2mm wetsuit for summer and a 4/3mm or even a 5/4mm for winter.
Besides your surfboard and wetsuit, you'll want to pack for a variety of weather conditions. Bring warm clothing for the evenings, even in summer, as it can get cool. Sunscreen is a must year-round, as the New Zealand sun is strong. It's also a good idea to pack a rain jacket, as the weather can be unpredictable. For more packing tips, check out our ultimate surf trip packing list.
Waikato has a rich Maori heritage and a thriving arts scene. The town of Raglan is known for its bohemian and eco-conscious vibe, with many cafes, galleries, and craft shops. Be sure to try a classic New Zealand meat pie and some fresh seafood. For a cultural experience, you can visit the Waikato Museum in Hamilton or explore the ancient limestone caves of Waitomo.
The cost of a surf trip to Waikato can vary depending on your travel style. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly backpackers and campsites to more luxurious holiday homes. A dorm bed in a hostel might cost around $30-40 NZD per night, while a private room could be $80-150 NZD. Eating out can be affordable if you stick to cafes and takeaways, with a meal costing around $15-25 NZD. For a more detailed breakdown of costs, see our New Zealand surf trip guide.
Waikato is generally a safe place to surf, but it's important to be aware of the potential hazards. Strong rips and currents can be present, especially at the river mouths and beach breaks. The rocks at the point breaks are sharp and covered in mussels, so be careful when entering and exiting the water. While shark attacks are rare, they are not unheard of in New Zealand, so it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
When you're not surfing, there are plenty of other things to see and do in the Waikato region. You can visit the stunning Bridal Veil Falls, go kayaking in Raglan Harbour, or explore the Hobbiton Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings. The city of Hamilton is also worth a visit, with its beautiful gardens and vibrant city center. For more ideas, check out our guide to the top things to do in Waikato.
