Gore Bay is a surf spot located just north of Christchurch. It lies outside the shelter of the Banks Peninsula, which means it picks up swells from all directions. This makes it a popular choice for surfers, especially during the summer weekends. The beach stretches about 3 km (5 mi), giving plenty of options for different peaks along the shore.
The surf at Gore Bay is quite versatile. It handles swell sizes starting from 1 ft (0.3 m) and can accommodate waves from the east and also picks up swells coming from the northeast and south. The breaks occur over sand, making it a good spot for beginners. You can find both left and right waves, which is nice for trying out different rides. The best times to surf here are generally during low, mid, and high tides, especially when there’s a west wind blowing in.
If you're planning to hang out for a while, there are a couple of camping grounds in Gore Bay where you can set up for the night. The local facilities are pretty basic but they get the job done, making it possible to enjoy a laid-back surf trip.