Surf: Waipu Bar is yet another transient rivermouth bank with lower tide rights being the usual fare on the north side of the flow. Sufficient peaks grace the long beach at higher tides down to Waipu Cove where rights can bank off the rocks and S winds aren't a problem. Directions: From Whangarei, head south on State Highway 1 Otaika Road. Continue through Oakleigh, past Ruakaka, then turn left onto Shoemaker Road. Go through Waipu on Cove Road, then turn left onto Johnson Point Road. Check the surf from here before paddling across the river and out on the bar. Environment: Not for beginners at the Bar. Plenty of campsites.