Kakanui
Walling right from Kakanui Point toward the river mouth over uneven reef and sand. It works best on a SSE swell with W winds around high tide. Watch for: uneven reef, rips at the river mouth.
Kakanui surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSE (150°)
- Direction range
- 40° - 186°
- Size range
- 0.7m - 2.2m
- Ideal size
- 1.4m - 1.8m
- Height multiplier
- 0.92×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- W (270°)
- Offshore range
- 225° - 315°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- high
Water temp
12°C
Wetsuit
5/4mm + boots
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
5/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Kakanui?
The Kakanui profile favors high tide. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Kakanui?
The Kakanui profile uses wind from W (270°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 225° to 315°. 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 Kakanui?
The Kakanui scoring profile favors swell from SSE (40° to 186°), a swell-height range of 0.7m to 2.2m, and a reference period of 12s. 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 Kakanui?
The main season at Kakanui is Mar-Oct.
How do I get to Kakanui?
The spot profile lists DUD as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 95 minutes.
What kind of wave is Kakanui?
Kakanui is a point break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Mar-Oct
Getting There
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