Wainui is a popular surf spot located near Gisborne, not to be confused with Raglan’s Wainui Beach. It's known for having several peaks and is appreciated by locals and surfers looking for consistent waves. The area is easily accessible, making it a go-to place for surfers in the region.
This beachbreak offers a range of swells, but it really shines with east swells, while northeast and south swells can also work. The waves can handle sizes starting from about 1 ft (0.3 m) and can get heavy and hollow when conditions are right. You can catch both left and right breaks here, but it's really best suited for intermediate surfers. The wind tends to be preferable from the west, and the tide can be surfed at low, mid, or high levels. Each section has its own vibe, with Whales and Pines being popular spots depending on the swell direction.
There's always a bit of crowd spread out across the different peaks, so you can usually find a place to get in the water without too much hassle. Just keep in mind that the waves can be fast and powerful, and you might encounter some rips, so make sure you're comfortable handling those situations before heading out.