Wharariki Beach

Wharariki beach is a beach break on a sandy beach, located on the west coast at the top of the south island. There is a bit of a walk to get to the beach, but well worth it for the beautiful scenery. The beach has several peaks down the beach with both right and left handers. The wave is punchy and fun. Good for all levels of surfer. There is a local camp ground at Wharariki Beach.

Quality Rating: 

5

Optimal Swell Direction: 

SW

Optimal Wind Direction: 

S

Tide: 

Mid
High
Incoming

Wave Type: 

Beach break

Wave Size Min: 

1.5ft

Wave Shape: 

Punchy

Beach Type: 

Sand

Skill Level: 

Beginner

Crowd Level: 

2

Wildlife: 

Seals

Directions 

From Takaka head north on Takaka Valley Highway State Highway 60. Continue on State Highway 60 until you get to the Collingwood turn off and turn left (away from Collingwood) onto Collingwood-Bainham Main Road, then turn right onto Collingwood Puponga Main Road, over the bridge heading north. Continue north, through Pakawau until you get to Puponga. At Puponga turn left onto Wharariki Road, the road will turn to gravel, continue as far as you can go, and find a park. From here you must walk over the sand dunes down to the beach.

Nearest Town: 

Puponga

Nearest City: 

Takaka

Travel Time from City: 

75mins

Road in: 

Seal
Gravel

Walk in: 

Yes

Parking at beach: 

Yes

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