Tangaroa surf guide

Tangaroa is a surf spot known for its challenging conditions and rough waters. It gained some fame thanks to Laird Hamilton and his crew, who took on the powerful waves back in 2001. Located in a remote area, this spot can deliver some serious surf, although it's not for the faint-hearted. With a few local surfers now using jetskis, you'll often see them towing into the heavy barrels that this place is known for.

The waves here can get pretty intense, especially when the south-east swells start rolling in. You can expect swell sizes that handle up to 6ft (about 1.8 meters) over the uneven reef. The right waves here are powerful, but the left can lead you into some tricky territory. If you're aiming to ride, you’ll want to look for mid to high tide with north winds for the best experience. This spot is mainly for expert surfers, so be ready for some heavy drops and strong barrels.

Since the locals are usually out on their jetskis when the waves are firing, it’s a good idea to be respectful and aware of their presence. Tangaroa is particularly popular among local bodyboarders too, adding to the mix of excitement in the water. Just keep in mind that getting caught inside the impact zone can be pretty dangerous due to the shallow areas covered with urchins, so make sure you're up for the challenge before paddling out.