Kahutara
Kahutara is a right-hand point break off the mouth of the Kahutara River. The beach has a rocky point at the south end, which leads into a stony shore at the river mouth and then the rest of the beach to the north is mostly sand/small stones. Kahutara gives a nice long, wally, fast ride, often with a steep, solid drop-in and offers a good barrel. When it's small, watch you don't hit the beach as the surf breaks close to shore. Kahutara can get crowded when it's on, so know the rules and respect the locals. Best for intermediate to expert surfers.
Optimal Swell Direction:
SE
Optimal Wind Direction:
NW
Tide:
Low
Mid
Outgoing
Wave Type:
Right point
Wave Size Min:
1.5ft
Wave Size Max:
12.0ft
Wave Shape:
Wally
Fast
Hollow
Barrels
Beach Type:
Sand
Stones
Rock
Skill Level:
Intermediate
Wildlife:
Seals
Penguins
Dolphins
Danger:
Crowds.
Directions
From Kaikoura, drive south on State Highway 1 for about 5 minutes until you pass the airport and reach the Puketa Campground. Just past the entrance to the campground on the left, there is a gravel driveway which ends in a small car park by the Kahutara River. Alternatively, you can continue on State Highway 1 across the Kahutara River to reach another car park on the left where you can view the surf. Kahutara surf break is right out front of the Puketa Campground which is a good option to stay.
Nearest Town:
Kaikoura
Nearest City:
Kaikoura
Travel Time from City:
5mins
Road in:
Seal
Walk in:
No
Parking at beach:
Yes
