Mangawhai Heads
Mangawhai consists of several breaks. This is a good beach break with many peaks down the beach. At the harbour entrance, you will find Sentinel Rock with a solid right-hander peeling off the north side, then another solid left-hander off the south side of the rock onto the bar. The left can get sucky pits and give a nice long ride. The bar moves and gets dredged occasionally, so the wave is always changing. Experienced surfers only on the bar, as the rips and currents can get dangerous.
Optimal Swell Direction:
NE
Optimal Wind Direction:
W
Tide:
Low
Wave Type:
Beach break
River mouth
Wave Size Min:
1.5ft
Wave Size Max:
10.0ft
Wave Shape:
Wally
Hollow
Beach Type:
Sand
Skill Level:
Intermediate
Danger:
Rips and currents. Watch for swimmers.
Directions
From Whangarei, head south on State Highway 1, until you almost reach Waipu, then make a left onto Nova Scotia Road into Waipu. In the centre of Waipu, turn left onto Cove Road. When you reach Mangawhai Heads, turn left onto Mangawhai Heads Road, which veers left at a roundabout, then turn left onto Wintle Street, down to the beach and park at the Surf Club.
Alternatively, travelling from Auckland, head north on State Highway 1 through Wellsford, then turn right onto Mangawhai Road, through to Mangawhai. Carry on through Mangawhai, heading north on Molesworth Drive to Mangawhai Heads. Turn right onto Mangawhai Heads Road, then left onto Wintle Street, down to the beach and park at the Surf Club.
Nearest Town:
Mangawhai Heads
Nearest City:
Whangarei
Travel Time from City:
50mins
Road in:
Seal
Walk in:
No
Parking at beach:
Yes
Facilities:
Toilets
Shower
