Port Waikato (The Reef)
Throaty left point at the south end of Sunset Beach, where the beach runs into the headland cliffs; powerful walls and hollow sections over reef and sand that the council puts at 400 m-plus and that hold big swell. Worth checking when the beach is over about 1.5 m. Experts: the entry off the rocks is sketchy and locals can be unwelcoming. It works best on a SW swell with E winds. Watch for: rock entry between sets, rips, localism.
Port Waikato (The Reef) surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (235°)
- Direction range
- 200° - 320°
- Size range
- 1.2m - 4.7m
- Ideal size
- 2.8m - 3.8m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 45° - 135°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
Water temp
16°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Difficulty
8/10
Crowd level
4/10
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Port Waikato (The Reef)?
The Port Waikato (The Reef) 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 Port Waikato (The Reef)?
The Port Waikato (The Reef) profile uses wind from E (90°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 45° to 135°. 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 Port Waikato (The Reef)?
The Port Waikato (The Reef) scoring profile favors swell from SW (200° to 320°), a swell-height range of 1.2m to 4.7m, and a reference period of 14s. 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 Port Waikato (The Reef)?
The main season at Port Waikato (The Reef) is Mar-Nov.
How do I get to Port Waikato (The Reef)?
The spot profile lists AKL as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 70 minutes.
What kind of wave is Port Waikato (The Reef)?
Port Waikato (The Reef) is a point break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 8/10.
Best Season
Peak: Mar-Nov
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