Fences
Main section of a very long S-facing line of rocks and sand north of Whanganui that can link into kilometre-long rights; the first section breaks hollow and fast. SW swell has to bend round the South Island's NW tip, so it needs size. It works best on a WSW swell with NNE winds around high tide. Watch for: uneven reef.
Fences surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- WSW (245°)
- Direction range
- 200° - 280°
- Size range
- 0.9m - 4.6m
- Ideal size
- 2.6m - 3.7m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 15s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NNE (20°)
- Offshore range
- 335° - 65°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- high
Water temp
16°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
4/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Fences?
The Fences profile favors high tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Fences?
The Fences profile uses wind from NNE (20°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 335° to 65°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Fences?
The Fences scoring profile favors swell from WSW (200° to 280°), a swell-height range of 0.9m to 4.6m, and a reference period of 15s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Fences?
The main season at Fences is Mar-Nov.
How do I get to Fences?
The spot profile lists WAG as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 30 minutes.
What kind of wave is Fences?
Fences is a point break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Mar-Nov
Getting There
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