Motiti Island
Rocky island about 10 km off Papamoa with several breaks round its tips in a NE swell: Swannies, a hollow, powerful left at the NE corner; a long, powerful right on the west side of the southern tip; and a punchy beach break on its east side. Boat access; experts only. It works best on a NE swell with SW winds. Watch for: boat access; powerful; remote.
Motiti Island surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NE (45°)
- Direction range
- 340° - 110°
- Size range
- 0.9m - 3.3m
- Ideal size
- 2m - 2.7m
- Height multiplier
- 1.00×
- Ideal period
- 11s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (225°)
- Offshore range
- 180° - 270°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
Water temp
19°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
8/10
Crowd level
2/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Motiti Island?
The Motiti Island profile does not specify a preferred tide stage. That does not mean tide has no effect: check local conditions alongside swell and wind.
What wind direction is offshore at Motiti Island?
The Motiti Island profile uses wind from SW (225°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 180° to 270°. 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 Motiti Island?
The Motiti Island scoring profile favors swell from NE (340° to 110°), a swell-height range of 0.9m to 3.3m, and a reference period of 11s. 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 Motiti Island?
The main season at Motiti Island is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr.
How do I get to Motiti Island?
The spot profile lists TRG as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 30 minutes. A boat transfer is also required.
What kind of wave is Motiti Island?
Motiti Island is a reef break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 8/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr
Getting There
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