Trip · Day trip · North Island

Waikato West Day Trip

The quiet alternative to the Raglan pilgrimage: Port Waikato's black-sand rivermouth peaks an hour from Auckland, then the gravel back roads to Ruapuke, a wild stretch most surfers drive straight past on their way to the points. Big skies, west coast power, and barely a leash in sight.

1Days
2Stops
395kmDrive total
5.5hrDriving
W / SWBest swell
E / NEBest wind

Trip forecast best of each day, by stop

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Day-by-day itinerary

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Day 1

Port Waikato

Waikato / Raglan · 3hr session

Beach break · Left reef Beginner to Advanced

Sunset Beach at the mouth of the mighty Waikato. Shifting peaks with serious push, and rips to match, pick your bank carefully and stay between them.

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Day 1

Ruapuke

Waikato / Raglan · 3hr session

Beach break · Black iron sand All levels

An hour of winding gravel south, or loop in via Raglan. Long, empty black-sand beach with peaks for days and a good chance you will have them all to yourself.

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Where to stay

Things to do nearby

Bring this trip to life

Aotearoa Surf can help with lessons, board hire and accommodation across most North Island routes. Get in touch for a guided run of any of these trips.

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