Raglan
Waikato, New Zealand
Point breakIntermediate
New Zealand's surf mecca, Raglan's seemingly endless series of left-hand points stretch along a rugged Waikato coastline and rank among the longest, most perfectly shaped lefts in the entire Southern Hemisphere.
Typical Conditions
The Surf Window
Swell Window
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size4-8ft
Wind
NW
Offshore
Tide
Mid
LowMidHigh
Season
March–September
JFMAMJJASOND
The Wave
Type
Left
Bottom
Rock and sand
Shape
Long, flowing left-hand walls, multiple sections from Indicators down through Whale Bay to Manu Bay
Length
200–500m per section
Skill Level
- •Who it's for: Intermediate
- •Why: The wave is long, consistently shaped, and forgiving enough for most intermediates to enjoy, though the outer points require more experience.
Hazards
- •Rocky reef entry and exit
- •Strong rip currents on the outgoing tide
- •Cold water (14–17°C), full wetsuit required
Local Tips
- •Raglan has a tight-knit community with strong surfing values, respect the lineup etiquette and the locals will reciprocate.
- •The town centre has excellent cafes and the surf community vibe is unlike anywhere else in New Zealand.
Location
-37.8006, 174.8686