Surf Spots in Gisborne

First city in the world to see the sunrise, Gisborne is a legendary surf destination. Home to Mahia Peninsula and countless world-class breaks. Warm water and consistent east coast swells.

9 Surf SpotsYear-round (especially summer)Point breaks, beach breaks, warm water, long right-handersNew Zealand7 local services

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Surf Spots

Beach

Reef

Point

Famous Surf Spots in Gisborne

Wainui Beach Makorori Mahia Peninsula Sponge Bay Midway

Break Types

Beach

Reef

Point

Skill Levels

Location

New Zealand

Gisborne, Tolaga Bay

All Surf Spots in Gisborne

Town Beaches

Consistent waves right in the city.

Beginner to Intermediate

Midway Beach

Gisborne City

Beach break

City beach break right in Gisborne. Convenient and consistent. Works on smaller swells, good for intermediates and learners.

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Intermediate

Sponge Bay

Sponge Bay, Town Beaches

Beach break

A surf spot in Town Beaches, Gisborne. Detailed guide coming soon.

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Intermediate

Waikanae

Waikanae, Town Beaches

Beach break

A surf spot in Town Beaches, Gisborne. Detailed guide coming soon.

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Wainui & Makorori

Premium beach breaks and points.

Intermediate

Makorori Beach

Makorori Beach, Wainui & Makorori

Beach break

A surf spot in Wainui & Makorori, Gisborne. Detailed guide coming soon.

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Intermediate

Makorori Point

Makorori Point, Wainui & Makorori

Beach break

A surf spot in Wainui & Makorori, Gisborne. Detailed guide coming soon.

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All levels

Wainui Beach

Wainui, Gisborne

Beach break

Long beach break with multiple peaks. Gisborne's most popular surf beach. Consistent waves and good for all levels. Beautiful scenery.

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Other Spots

More surf spots in Gisborne

Advanced

Makorori Beach

Makorori, North of Gisborne

Point break - right

Premium right-hand point break, considered one of NZ's best waves. Long walls, barrels, and a dedicated local crew. Handles big swells.

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Advanced

The Pipe

Gisborne

Reef break

Riverview reef break that can produce hollow barrels. Advanced wave, breaks close to rocks. Respected local spot.

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Beginner to Intermediate

Tolaga Bay

Beach break

Scenic beach break in historic coastal town. Consistent waves and less crowded than Gisborne spots. Good all-rounder.

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About Surfing in Gisborne

Wave Conditions

Point breaks, beach breaks, warm water, long right-handers

Best Time to Surf

The best season for surfing in Gisborne is Year-round (especially summer). However, waves can be found year-round.

Local Surf Culture

Gisborne has a welcoming surf community. Always respect local surfers, follow surf etiquette, and be mindful of the environment.

Safety Tips

Check local conditions before surfing, respect warning signs, and never surf alone. Always surf within your skill level and be aware of hazards.

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