Surf: Mangawhai Heads is a wave and people magnet since the regulation rivermouth is aided and abetted by a spit of rocks to create some of the best lefthanders on this coast. Best in solid NE swells at lower tides, there's a bonus right back into the river and more small swell fun on the north side of the rocks. Environment: Often crowded since it is really consistent for the east coast, allowing a bit of aggro to surface on good days, so only competent surfers should apply.