Northland.

Te Tai Tokerau has a large coastline spanning East and West with big inter-regional differences in wave variety, meaning there’s something for everyone. In the Far North it’s an easy hop to the other side if one side is on-shore, and only about a 1 ½ hour drive in the wider part of the region, from Sandy Bay to Baylys Beach.

The East coast doesn’t often get really big, but if you have a longboard you will be in for a treat on the smaller days. The West, like everywhere in Aotearoa, is just that bit wilder and heavier than the East, with more consistent swell.
On the East there are endless beaches and rocky outcrops to explore, bay after bay hiding a mini paradise behind nearly every headland. The West is almost the complete opposite with exposed, wind beaten coastline, the ‘Wild West’ is a description that rolls off the tongue easily after pulling up at Baylys Beach on a significant swell. Both coasts are well worth the visit, and with a bit of driving, you can find a wave nearly every day. Just be mindful that not all beaches have public access and you must read and respect signs and locked gates while you are on your next Northern adventure.

Milder than most other regions in Aotearoa, no wetsuits are needed in the Summer, but sun protection is a good reason to cover up. In the middle of winter you will probably still want a 4’3 and booties are recommended, especially for rock jumps and if you want to last in the surf that little bit longer.