Surfing the Lower North Island: Taranaki, Wellington

The New Plymouth area was the dramatic filming location for the movie "The Last Samurai", nearby are multiple surf beaches which stretch throughout Taranaki. Fitzroy beach is popular due to its accessibility and dependable surf. Journey south of New Plymouth via Surf Highway 45 through Oakura and Opunake and select one of the many quality breaks on offer.

Only minutes from the city of Wellington is Lyall Bay which receives southerly swells to the delight of the many locals. Surf the day away then spoil yourself with an evening dinner and experience theatre in the cultural capital.

Round the corner from Wellington is Wairarapa with unpopulated waves just waiting to be discovered. Go off road and sample the reef and beach breaks, but be wary of big southerly swells, rugged conditions and changing weather patterns.