Surf: Increasingly protected from S swells by the Banks Peninsula, making them smaller, weaker and messier are the Christchurch beaches of Spencerville, Waimairi and beach culture central New Brighton. Average beachbreaks on either side of the pier and also the only webcam. Best at mid to high tide in a NE swell. Environment: Both North Ramp and South Ramp at New Brighton get crowded and the shorey will have some dumpy sections in stronger swells. Great for beginners on most days. Beware the fishing lines cast from the pier.