Tutukaka Surf is a surf school, hire and retail shop on Marina Road, Tutukākā, about 30km (19 miles) north-east of Whangārei. It runs learn-to-surf lessons, school surfing sessions and holiday programmes, hires out boards and wetsuits by the hour, day or 24 hours, and has a shop stocking boards, wetsuits, accessories and clothing. The shop is open seven days, 9am to 5pm.
Why people go to Tutukaka Surf
- Learn to surf – beginner lessons with gear supplied.
- Board and wetsuit hire – hourly, full-day or 24-hour hire.
- Surfing for schools – sessions for school groups.
- Holiday programme – surf days for kids during school holidays.
- Surf shop – boards, wetsuits, accessories and apparel.
Activities
Surf lessons
Lessons are aimed at first-timers and those wanting to build confidence. Wetsuit, board and sunblock are included, and lessons are usually held at nearby Sandy Bay, one of the main surf beaches on the Tutukākā Coast.
Hire
Boards and wetsuits can be booked online for an hour, a full day or 24 hours, which suits people staying on the coast who want to head out on their own.
Schools and holiday programmes
Surfing for Schools sessions cater for class trips and camps, and the holiday programme gives kids a structured few days in the water.
Shop
The shop carries surfboards, wetsuits, leg ropes, wax, surf paints and clothing.
Who it’s for
- Complete beginners, kids and adults
- Visitors staying on the Tutukākā Coast
- School groups and camps
- Experienced surfers needing hire gear
Surfing on the Tutukākā Coast
The coast north of Tutukākā has several surf beaches within a short drive, including Sandy Bay, Woolleys Bay and Matapōuri. Sandy Bay picks up most swells and is a common spot for lessons, while the sheltered bays are better for swimming on bigger days.
Tips for visiting
- Book ahead – lessons and hire fill up over summer.
- Check conditions – lessons can shift with the swell and wind.
- Bring a towel and water – gear and sunblock are supplied for lessons.
- Combine your day – the marina has cafés and dive trips leave from here too.
Hours and location
Marina Road, Tutukākā 0173. Shop open 7 days, 9am to 5pm. Phone 027 306 7047. Book lessons and hire online.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need any experience for a lesson?
No. Lessons are designed for beginners and include all the gear you need.
Where are lessons held?
Usually at Sandy Bay, a short drive north of Tutukākā Marina, depending on conditions.
Can I hire a board without a lesson?
Yes. Boards and wetsuits can be hired by the hour, day or 24 hours.
Do they run school trips?
Yes, through their Surfing for Schools programme.
Is there a kids’ holiday programme?
Yes, during school holidays. Check the website for dates.
How far is Tutukākā from Whangārei?
About 30km (19 miles), or roughly 30 minutes’ drive.
