Where to Surf in Christchurch
Yes, even the South Island‘s largest city has some exceptional surf breaks to hit! Whether you want to learn how to surf or are an experienced surfer looking for your next challenge, there are surf breaks found along the coast of Christchurch to suit!
What we love about most of the surf breaks in Christchurch is that most of them are fun rides for both beginners and experienced riders.
What’s more, they are easy to access from Christchurch’s seaside suburbs. So check out this list of some of the top Christchurch surf breaks!
While you’re here, you might also be interested in the 45 Best Things to Do in Christchurch.
Table of Contents
1. Stoke Street – Sumner Beach
Stoke Street, located at the end of Stoke Street on Sumner Beach, offers one of Christchurch’s most accessible surf spots. This gentle beach-break is ideal for beginners and experienced surfers looking for a mellow session. The forgiving waves make it a favourite for surf schools and lessons.
Best surfed at low to mid tide, Stoke Street responds well to swells from the north through east, with offshore winds from west to southeast. It’s sheltered from strong north-easterlies, providing a safe environment for learners. Watch out for rocks at high tide.
With board hire and surf schools operating nearby, Stoke Street combines easy access, scenic coastal charm, and a relaxed introduction to Christchurch surfing.
Location: End of Stoke Street, Sumner Beach
Best swell: From north to east
Best offshore winds: West to southeast
© ChristchurchNZ2. Breakwater – Sumner Beach
Breakwater, located near the boat ramp at Sumner’s eastern end, is one of Christchurch’s most popular surf spots. This versatile break delivers waves suitable for both beginner and intermediate surfers.
We’ve found that it works best during low to mid tides, particularly with swells from the north to east and offshore winds from west through southeast.
The impressive backdrop of rugged cliffs and rocky reef edges adds to the scenic appeal. While it can get crowded on good days, Breakwater remains a local favourite thanks to its reliability.
Surfers should be aware of the flowing rip near the ramp and exercise caution, especially during busier periods.
Location: Off Break Water, Sumner Beach
Best swell: From north to east
Best offshore winds: West to southeast
© ChristchurchNZ3. Mussel Rock – Sumner Beach
Mussel Rock, nestled beside Cave Rock on Sumner’s eastern stretch, offers an exciting right-hander for surfers. This break shines at high tide with clean east to southeast swell, catering to beginners and intermediates seeking longer rides.
The dramatic volcanic cliffs and tide-pool scenery add visual appeal to your surfing adventure.
We personally love the versatility of this spot, but remember to stay vigilant. Be cautious of rips and submerged rocks, particularly near the estuary mouth.
The changing sea conditions demand attentiveness to both wave shape and surrounding waters.
For those looking to level up their surf game, Mussel Rock provides a perfect playground to hone your skills.
Location: West of Cave Rock, Sumner Beach
Best swell: From east to southeast
© NZPocketGuide.com4. Taylor’s Mistake
Taylor’s Mistake, also known as Te Onepoto, is a powerful beach-break located beyond Sumner, adjacent to Godley Head. This stunning beach suits intermediate to advanced surfers, offering fast, heavy waves that can close out in large swells.
The break performs best with east to northeast swell and offshore winds from west to southwest.
Dotted with historical bach cottages and a surf life-saving club, Taylor’s Mistake exudes local character.
Winter months, especially July, tend to offer the most consistent clean waves, though the water remains cold (around 10°C), so full wetsuits, hoods and boots are recommended. On busy days, expect a committed local crowd.
Even if you’re not surfing, Taylor’s Mistake is a great spot for a picnic and to soak in the coastal scenery.
This surf spot also features in the 10 Places to Surf in the South Island.
Location: Taylors Mistake Road, 4 km (2.5 mi) south of Sumner
Best swell: Northeast
Best offshore winds: Northwest to southeast
© Francis Vallance on Flickr5. New Brighton
New Brighton offers a fantastic surf spot suitable for beginners to advanced riders. Stretching alongside the iconic pier, the long sandy beach boasts numerous peaks suited to all ability levels.
Swells from the northeast to southeast work best, with offshore winds coming from NW to SW. Conditions are ideal at mid to high tide, providing unthreatening take-off zones even on crowded days.
While the beach can get busy near the pier in good weather, the wide spacing ensures ample room for all. Watch out for drifts through the pier.
Onshore photography opportunities and local surf school services further enhance its appeal for learners and seasoned surfers alike.
Check out more things to do in the area with 10 Free & Cheap Things To Do in New Brighton.
Location: New Brighton Beach, either side of the pier
Best swell: Northeast to southeast
Best offshore winds: Northwest to southwest
© ChristchurchNZ6. Spencer Park
Spencer Park is primarily a recreational coastal reserve north of Christchurch, offering family-friendly zones and beach access. While not widely recognised as a surf break, it may provide gentle waves during favourable conditions.
The park’s main appeal lies in its natural beauty, providing opportunities for paddling and fostering an emotional connection with nature.
Surf-specific information is limited, but the area’s tranquil environment makes it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful coastal experience.
Location: 15 km (9 mi) drive north of New Brighton, beach adjacent to Spencer Park
Best swell: Northeast to south
Best offshore winds: Northwest to southwest
© Emma Kelland on Wikipedia7. North Beach
North Beach offers an open-beach surfing experience with multiple peaks. Like its neighbour, it thrives on NE to SE swells and NW to SW winds, with optimal conditions at mid to high tide.
Typically less crowded than Sumner, North Beach caters to all skill levels and rewards those willing to explore. While not known for dramatically powerful waves, it consistently delivers clean beach-break rides in a relaxed setting.
The surf here is suitable for beginners to advanced surfers, making it a versatile spot for various abilities.
Location: North Beach, 2 km (1.2 mi) north of New Brighton Beach
Best swell: Northeast to south
Best offshore winds: Northwest to southwest
© Pixabay8. Hickory Bay – Banks Peninsula
For intermediate surfers seeking an adventurous outing, Hickory Bay (Waikerikikari) on Banks Peninsula‘s east coast offers a scenic escape from city breaks.
Known for its consistently powerful and punchy beach breaks, this surf-exposed bay catches direct east swells, providing cleaner waves with good integrity.
The stunning location, with its huge cliffs and vibrant blue water, adds to the allure.
Access requires a drive along Summit Road and a short walk, so come prepared. Keep an eye on tide and wind direction for the best experience.
While it’s a bit of a trek, the reward is worth it for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
Explore the wider Banks Peninsula while you’re in the area using the 15 Best Things to Do in Akaroa.
Location: Hickory Bay, 92 km (57 mi) from Christchurch city
Best swell: Southeast
Best offshore winds: North to northwest
© ChristchurchNZ9. Magnet Bay – Banks Peninsula
Magnet Bay, a gem on Banks Peninsula, offers a thrilling surf experience for intermediate and advanced riders. This reef/point break boasts consistent year-round waves, thanks to its exposed southern orientation.
Northeast to east swells and offshore winds create ideal conditions for long left or right lines over the reef.
While closer to Christchurch than some other Peninsula spots, Magnet Bay requires careful planning. Access crosses farmland, and the lineup can be localised.
Time your visit with low-to-mid tide and watch for sharp boulders when paddling out. The bay’s rugged beauty also makes it a prime spot for spotting seals.
Location: Hickory Bay, 69 km (43 mi) from Christchurch city
Best swell: Southeast and south
Best offshore winds: Northeast
© ChristchurchNZ10. Tumbledown Bay – Banks Peninsula
Tumbledown Bay provides more than just a relaxing day at the beach. This exposed east-facing bay, named after a historical shipwreck, catches NE to SE swells and holds potential for exciting waves under large swell conditions.
While not heavily documented in surf guides, local consensus lists it among viable Banks Peninsula breaks.
With its volcanic cliffs and scenic privacy, Tumbledown Bay promises an adventurous surf experience. However, it’s best suited for confident surfers due to its rocky seabed and less predictable breaks.
Location: Hickory Bay, 67 km (41.6 mi) from Christchurch city
Best swell: South
Best offshore winds: North
© UnsplashMore About Surfing in Christchurch and New Zealand
That’s it for our list of the best surf breaks in Christchurch and New Zealand. For more tips to plan which surf destinations to hit, as well as to plan your trip to Christchurch, take a look at these:
- 45 Best Things to Do in Christchurch
- 10 Best Places to Surf in the South Island
- 10 Best Places to Surf on the North Island
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Complete Guide to Christchurch.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Adventure Mark (Health and Safety Audit - Updated [2025])
- Work Safe NZ (Adventure Activities Guidelines - Updated [2025])
- Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2025])
- AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2025])
- NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2025])
- Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2025])
- Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2025])
- Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2025])
Our editorial standards: At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.
