World Surf League Tour

New Zealand is a premier global surfing destination, with over 15,000 kilometres of coastline offering diverse breaks — from world-class point breaks to powerful beach breaks. The North Island is generally warmer and more accessible, while the South Island offers more rugged, uncrowded reef and point breaks. It’s this depth and quality of surf that sees the World Surf League bring its Championship Tour to Raglan in 2026, where long, clean left-hand point breaks and reliable Tasman Sea swells create ideal conditions for world-class competition.

How to get to Raglan:

Driving from Auckland takes about 2 hours; from Hamilton takes about 45 mins. 

• Best Time to Go: Summer (December–February) for warmer water and consistent, manageable waves. Winter (June–August) offers larger, more powerful swells but requires thick wetsuits.
• Water Temperature: Generally temperate, but a 3/2mm or 4/3mm wetsuit is necessary, especially in the South Island where booties and gloves are often needed.
• Surf Culture: Friendly, relaxed, and often centred around remote, natural settings. Many spots are accessed through farmland, requiring respect for landowners.
• Beginner Spots: Places like Orewa Beach, Mangawhai, and Raglan offer great, safe, and consistent options for learning.

A rip current (often called a rip) is a narrow body of water moving out to sea. 

If caught, remember the 3Rs:

1.    RELAX: Stay calm and float. Rips won't pull you under; they just take you for a ride.
2.    RAISE: Put your hand up to signal for help.
3.    RIDE: Float with the current until it weakens, then swim parallel to the shore to get back in.