Surf Highway 45

Surf Highway 45 is a scenic coastal touring route, which follows the stunning Taranaki coastline between New Plymouth and Hawera. So called because of its 180 degrees of surf breaks, the Surf Highway 45 is just over 100kms in length - but big on surf!

Beginning in the beautiful city of New Plymouth, Surf Highway 45 hugs the Taranaki coastline for 105kms, ending in the sleepy settlement of Hawera. In-between all manner of surf breaks and beaches can be found (usually involving a diversion of a couple of kilometres off the main highway) - with the 180 degree nature of the Taranaki coastline ensuring there's always a wave to be found!

Also a world renowned windsurfing location, Surf Highway 45 is a must for surfers, aquatic sports enthusiasts and lovers of wild, windswept coastlines.

BEACHES / SURF BREAKS:

WAIWAKAIHO: Waiwakaiho is situated at the mouth of the Waiwakaiho River on the northern edge of New Plymouth. This is a fast breaking right hander.

OAKURA BEACH: Oakura Beach is a pleasant seaside town, with an amazing beach side camping ground. This local club spot has both left and right hand breaks and large swells. A great option for longer camping trips.

AHU AHU AND WELD ROAD: Approximately 3 kilometres south of Oakura, Ahu Ahu Beach is known for its gentle left-hander and fast right-hander. Weld Road, nearby, is a great long boarding spot. Both these spots are at their best during southwest winds.

KUMARA PATCH: To accesses this hidden gem you need to walk across farmland for approximately 1km, from Komene Road. Before entering the farmland it's a good idea to ask the farmer for permission - but once on the beach you won't be disappointed! The Kumara Patch has a left hand break known to peel for 150 metres, and is at its best during southwest swells.

STENT ROAD: Stent Road is around half a kilometre south of Warea. This spot has an excellent right hand break, and works on all tides and swells.

OPUNAKE BEACH: A favourite holiday and surf spot alike, the pleasant seaside town of Opunake is a perennial favourite. The break is a right-hander and is at its best at high-tide with an offshore NE wind.

OHAWE BEACH: 7kms west of Hawera, Ohawe beach is a popular swimming, fishing and surfing spot with a fast right hand break.

OTHER ACTIVITIES: New Plymouth - cultural epicentre of Taranaki, featuring the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, Puke Ariki Museum & Library, and the Len Lye Wind Wand. Walking and hiking in Egmont National Park Climbing the iconic Mt Taranaki - 5 hours ascending, 3 hours descending. Visiting the popular natural attraction of Dawson's Falls