Motu River
Long, barrelling right off the Motu River mouth over small pebbles that rattle in the pit; the main wave runs down the river bar for a long way. It needs N swell and has a hollow take-off, so advanced to expert. You can check it from the road. It works best on a N swell with S winds. Watch for: pebble bottom, river-mouth currents.
Motu River surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- N (350°)
- Direction range
- 300° - 40°
- Size range
- 1.5m - 3.8m
- Ideal size
- 2.5m - 3.2m
- Height multiplier
- 0.92×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- S (170°)
- Offshore range
- 125° - 215°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
Water temp
18°C
Wetsuit
3/2mm fullsuit
Difficulty
7/10
Crowd level
3/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Motu River?
The Motu River 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 Motu River?
The Motu River profile uses wind from S (170°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 125° to 215°. 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 Motu River?
The Motu River scoring profile favors swell from N (300° to 40°), a swell-height range of 1.5m to 3.8m, 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 Motu River?
The main season at Motu River is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr.
How do I get to Motu River?
The spot profile lists WHK as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 85 minutes.
What kind of wave is Motu River?
Motu River is a point break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 7/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr
Getting There
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