LEARN TO SURF

Raglan is a mecca for surfers. Sun-bronzed, dreadlocked young backpackers and gnarly old board riders come from all points of the globe to ride the break and share a beer while they relive their experiences. But it’s also the reason many locals settle here. Manu Bay is the best break by world standards but also the most difficult. It’s a long left-hand point break on a boulder beach and, to reach the waves, surfers must jump off the rocks, paddle like hell and fight for a place in the line-up. This is not for the timid. On a good day, there could be dozens trying to drop in on the same wave. From a seagull’s viewpoint, the wet-suited surfers look like black seals floating on the sea. The adjacent Whale Bay has softer swells and is suitable for the less intrepid, but waves can still reach four metres. On an epic day, it’s possible to surf from one bay to another. For learners, the best place to practise is Ngārunui Beach, which has no rocks and fewer people.

Choose from Raglan Surfing School, 5b Whaanga Road, (07) 825 7873, raglansurfingschool.co.nz; Solsurfer Surf School, 611 Wainui Road, (07) 825 8268; and Green Wave Raglan, 0210 841 3481, greenwaveraglan.com