Orere Point

Orere Point is a surf spot located in Auckland, New Zealand, on the Hauraki Gulf just outside the Auckland metropolitan area. The spot is known for its sand and rock bottom, with a mix of pebbles and rocks, and is exposed to the open ocean. The surf here is very fickle and only breaks a few times a year, mainly after a tropical cyclone moves down the East Coast of New Zealand. Swell needs to be in the 4-6 metre range for the spot to work, and it is not in a position that catches a lot of swell. The spot provides both left and right waves. Wave length is usually between 50 and 150 meters, but on rare good days can reach up to 300-500 meters. The ideal swell direction is from the north or northeast, with wind from the northwest, west, southwest, or south. The spot works on all tides. The surf is hollow, fast, and powerful when it breaks, but it is rare to see it working, with reports of only 2-3 days a year at 2-3 feet and 2-3 times a decade at 4-6 feet. The spot is usually empty, so crowds are not common, but always respect the locals and check the surf etiquette if the spot is crowded. Hazards include rocks and sea urchins, so be careful when entering and exiting the water. Access is by car from Auckland, taking the southern motorway, exiting at Papakura, driving through Clevedon and Kawakawa Bay, and following signs to Orere Point. The walk to the surf spot is less than five minutes from the parking area, and public access is available. Facilities in the area include a local store, playground, campground, picnic area, parking, and limited mobility toilets. Always check your skills before paddling out, be sure that the spot and conditions match your level. For the latest surf forecast, report, map, and webcam, check online resources before heading out.