New Zealand, where is it? How many times this question has been asked? No! it is not part of Australia and Yes! it does exist. To put it bluntly, New Zealand is an undiscovered paradise that often slips under the touring surfers radar.
For those who are unsure New Zealand is a small country with a population of 4 million situated in the South Pacific. The interesting thing to note is that the country consists of two islands, the North and South, it has the largest coastline in the world for its landmass so on any given day the chances of finding a surfable wave are very high. The size of the country allows one to drive from one coast to the other in a few hours.
Not only is New Zealand surrounded by coast but it has some of the nicest surf sports in the world. Top of this list include breaks like; Raglan, St Clair, Ahipara, Whangamata Bar, Te Arai and even Papatowai which is home to some of the biggest waves in the country. Where else in the world can you surf with magnificent views of native forest, snow capped mountains and much more.
In New Zealand the greenery is plentiful, the wildlife copious and the surf breaks uncrowded. It is the idyllic spot to get away to, explore and also enjoy surfing. People every year come from near and far to enjoy the surf that you can find here.
The beauty of surfing is that the setup is rather easy. You don’t need the fanciest and flashest equipment out there. You don’t even need to pay to use the beaches, although respect needs to be showed to those who surf the areas daily. All you need is a good board and a wetsuit which if you look after will do you more than justice.
New Zealand has a fully fledged website dedicated to providing those interested in surfing with everything and anything they may want to know. Surf.co.nz is New Zealand’s Premier Surf website, you’ll find daily reports, static cameras (updated every 15 mins), live streaming cameras, latest news, gear reviews and the list goes on. They even have a photo gallery loaded with New Zealand surf shots.
Things to remember:
• Take a lesson - Getting started for many is the hardest part. It is all good to persist in teaching yourself to surf but when it comes down to it bite the bullet and get a lesson, you will be more than thankful. Surf Schools are dotted all around the country and there is no shame in using them. They are well equipped with surfboards, wetsuits and most importantly knowledge. Whilst they do cost, it is a small price to pay to be able to experience the joys of riding a wave.
• Be prepared – This means do some research on the beaches/surf areas you are visiting. Whilst localism is evident it pays to know where you are surfing. Respect the sea gods and find out information about the area before you dive into the water. Whilst many may neglect this it is important to know exactly what you are in for. The many beaches that are around house not only good waves but many hidden things such as; reefs, rocks, rips and tidal effects.
• Use the correct gear – One’s biggest mistake when starting out surfing or surfing in general can be buying and using gear that is not suitable to you. Many shops around the country sell boards and wetsuits but not all of them will have the knowledge you’ll need when buying. A specified surf shop will have experienced staff who will ensure you get the gear right for you.
• Visit the local shaper - People have been making boards in New Zealand for decades and there is nothing that compares to the knowledge carried by the shapers. There are loads of boards shipped in form China regularly but nothing compares to a NZ made surfboard from a local shaper. They know not only the area but have been surfing for years and can tailor a board to you.
• Embrace the local culture – Many of the towns that are home to the spectacular New Zealand surf breaks are small and very unique. Don’t be afraid to get amongst it as you will find that the locals are indeed very friendly and after all your business helps them sustain their community
The difference between a good and a great expedition will reflect on the above things to remember. You may choose to ignore these but at the end of the day taking them all into consideration will help you get the best from the experience as you can.
Nowhere else in the world will you find such a beautiful country, every twist in the road offers up the potential of a new break. The majority of the enjoyment comes from the journey ‘the search’ those who take the challenge will reap the rewards.
New Zealand, just as surfing, is something to be enjoyed. A smile on the face of someone after a good surf is priceless and remember help keep New Zealand green, first step buy Kiwi made.
