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Coastal Highlights

Raglan Coast

Dramatic west coast scenery and consistently perfect waves have created the surfing legend that is Raglan.

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West of Hamilton, Raglan is both a surfing mecca and a dramatically scenic area of black sand coastline. Many people believe that Manu Bay on this coast has the longest, most accessible and consistent left-hand break in the world. If you have the required level of skill, it's possible to catch a wave and cruise for up to two kilometres. Manu Bay (also known as The Point) was featured in the 1966 cult surfing movie Endless Summer'.

If you're not a hard-core surfer, Ocean Beach is a fine place for a swim or a body boarding session. Lifeguards patrol the western end of the beach during the summer months - it's safest to swim between the flags.

There are several excellent walks in the Raglan area. In just 10 minutes you can walk to the top of Bridal Veil Falls (55 metres). If you're wanting a more challenging adventure, you can climb to the top of Mount Karioi - on a fine day you can see all the way to Mount Taranaki. The Te Toto Gorge Track is another option - it's a route that was once used extensively by Maori and remnants of stone walls can still be seen in places.

Be sure to spare a couple of hours for Raglan township. It's an entertaining mix of cafés, bars, surf shops and galleries. This part of New Zealand has always attracted people who are into alternate lifestyles, so the residents are full of character.

WAIKATO Region

Contact Details

Phone:	+64
Contact:	Hamilton i-SITE Visitor Centre
Phone:	+64 7 9585 960
Fax:	+64 7 8393 127
Postal:	Private Bag 3010 Hamilton
Website:	www.visithamilton.co.nz

Raglan is the closest town to this highlight.

In Raglan:

Other towns near Raglan by road:

Hamilton (40 minutes)
Ngaruawahia (45 minutes)
Huntly (59 minutes)

Other towns near Raglan by rail:

Raglan does not have any rail stations.

The nearest rail station is in Hamilton (40 minutes)

Other towns near Raglan by air:

Raglan does not have scheduled passenger air services.

The nearest airport is in Hamilton (40 minutes)

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