About This Spot
French Bay, New Zealand is one of the world's premier wind-sports destinations, located in New Zealand.
Situated in Oceania, the spot offers Flat water conditions, making it ideal for experienced riders pushing their limits.
With ENE–E–ESE winds, peaking from January to November, French Bay, New Zealand delivers the kind of sessions that keep riders coming back year after year.
Why Riders Love It
Avoid trying to launch above mid tide as the natural bay makes the wind very fluky. Launching: Your best bet is to pump up on the beach and then rig up close to the water's edge. The ground can be slippery, so it's probably safest to do a drift launch from shallow water. On return to the beach after your session, you are safest dropping your kite in the shallow water close to the beach.
When to Go
Best months: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November.
What to Expect
Flat water is on top of and behind the sandbanks which are across the deep water channel. To get to the flat water you need to cross the channel which can be choppy when the wind is strong. There is an obstruction which may be a hazard at low tide, but this is marked with a buoy.
Wind & Conditions
ENE · E · ESE · SE · SSE
Best wind direction
Avoid trying to launch above mid tide as the natural bay makes the wind very fluky. Launching: Your best bet is to pump up on the beach and then rig up close to the water's edge. The ground can be slippery, so it's probably safest to do a drift launch from shallow water. On return to the beach after your session, you are safest dropping your kite in the shallow water close to the beach.
Best Months
Water Conditions
Flat water is on top of and behind the sandbanks which are across the deep water channel. To get to the flat water you need to cross the channel which can be choppy when the wind is strong. There is an obstruction which may be a hazard at low tide, but this is marked with a buoy.
Check Conditions
Live Wind Forecast at French Bay, New Zealand
Check real-time wind conditions before you head out.
Facilities & Access
📍 Getting There
🚗No walk to the beach
Park behind the beach.
Location
Travel Light
Travel Light to French Bay, New Zealand
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Schools at French Bay, New Zealand
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