Tairāwhiti offers up some pretty consistent surf and there are breaks to suit all levels.  Beginners can head to Gisborne’s town beaches and if you’re looking for something a bit more challenging there are breaks all along the Wainui coastline and beyond. The prevailing wind direction in Gisborne is NW which will provide clean, offshore conditions at most spots in town and up the coast. Generally speaking there’s a welcoming and friendly vibe in the water with a strong female presence. 

If you’re willing to do some research and up for an adventure you can easily head out of Gisborne, up the East Cape or down to the Mahia Peninsula and score yourself some uncrowded or even empty waves, again options for all levels just ask the locals.  If you’re on a longboard head over as there’s a fair few options but might be worth chucking in that shortboard in case you want to score some hollow action at Stoke Route.

We get lots of sunshine hours throughout summer but the waves are less consistent although on a hot day you can head out in your swimmers if you’re game. Shoulder seasons you’ll be in a 3:2 and winter you’ll want a 4:3 with booties and a hood, it’s worth the chill as the waves get more consistent.  We don’t see many huge swells here the odd session over winter and autumn but mostly 2-3ft waves and smaller in summer.

Whilst we’re pretty isolated here in Gisborne I’d say it’s well worth the drive as there’s lots to see and do, if you really can’t find a wave you can always head to Rere rockslide for your aquatic adrenaline fix! Check out this website for what’s on and what to do in Tairāwhiti.