About This Spot
Kaitarakihi, New Zealand is one of the world's premier wind-sports destinations, located in New Zealand.
Situated in Oceania, the spot offers Flat and Chop and Small waves water conditions, making it ideal for experienced riders pushing their limits.
With SW–WSW winds, peaking from January to December, Kaitarakihi, New Zealand delivers the kind of sessions that keep riders coming back year after year.
Why Riders Love It
Wind here is very very strong. A typical spring WSW wind (which is usually 25-40 knots in the open) is channeled through the heads. Combine this with the effect of the strong outgoing tide current and the end result is a super windy spot. In fact this place only works in real strong winds and is only designed for very small kites and small sails. Best direction is SW or WSW.
When to Go
Water temps aren't that warm. Wetsuit required year round but this is more owing to the dangerous nature of the water than the cold (water temp about 21°C in summer). The season here is mostly winter and spring (June to December) but off-season can be ridden too (summer, autumn).
What to Expect
Water is flat to small/medium chop. All tides spot that works best at low tide. Nearly the entire Manukau Harbour drains out through here at low tide so the outgoing tidal current is very strong. However this can work to advantage as it greatly increases apparent wind effect. A sandbar right out at the entrance can produce waves. This spot is for advanced kiters only.
Wind & Conditions
SW · WSW
Best wind direction
Wind here is very very strong. A typical spring WSW wind (which is usually 25-40 knots in the open) is channeled through the heads. Combine this with the effect of the strong outgoing tide current and the end result is a super windy spot. In fact this place only works in real strong winds and is only designed for very small kites and small sails. Best direction is SW or WSW.
Best Months
Water Conditions
Water is flat to small/medium chop. All tides spot that works best at low tide. Nearly the entire Manukau Harbour drains out through here at low tide so the outgoing tidal current is very strong. However this can work to advantage as it greatly increases apparent wind effect. A sandbar right out at the entrance can produce waves. This spot is for advanced kiters only.
Check Conditions
Live Wind Forecast at Kaitarakihi, New Zealand
Check real-time wind conditions before you head out.
Facilities & Access
📍 Getting There
🚶Short walk to the beach
From the airport head around the harbour to Titirangi. Then head along the road to Huia. On the left about 3km before Huia is a small dirt road that has a sign saying `Kaitarakihi` on it. This is the road to the beach.
Location
Travel Light
Travel Light to Kaitarakihi, New Zealand
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Schools at Kaitarakihi, New Zealand
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