New Zealand has a beautiful coast and plenty of wind most times of the year. In addition to great kiteboarding and windsurfing, it offers countless other outdoor activities like skydiving, ziplining, or rafting to make it worth the trip. Generally, you'll have a chance of wind any time of year, but September to December are the windiest months. If you come during New Zealand's winter, you will need a full wetsuit.
New Zealand offers not just premium coastal kitesurfing but also amazing lake locations with NW wind, particularly on South Island. Lake Coleridge is rather cold, and Lake Clearwater is shallower and warmer, which is perfect for beginner kitesurfers. Wanaka and Wakatipu are also famous lakes, although they can be gusty. Lake Aviemore gets summer thermal winds.
East Coast of the South Island has good east winds. Christchurch area has 15-20 knots during summer. New Brighton Beach and Waikuku beach have great kiting. Ashley river mouth lagoon is good to learn to kitesurf. In the north, Golden Bay has sand flats, vast beaches, and a huge shallow lagoon.
North Island has many spots around Auckland. Point Chevalier is a shallow spot for beginners close to the city. Meola Reef is perfect for freestyle, but there is no beach to launch from. Shoal Bay is another good spot with a sandbar that suits more advanced riders.
Windsurfing is a very popular sport on the North Island—the Bay of Islands, Auckland, the and island of Waiheke. Tauranga’s inner harbor suits windsurfers of all levels. Taupo is another sweet spot. A small town of Paekakariki near Wellington and Wellington itself are also excellent windsurfing destinations.
On the South Island, one can try Tasman Bay, Christchurch, and Queenstown. Christchurch has the largest windsurfing community here. Further to the south, Dunedin also boasts excellent winds and scenic landscapes. Stewart Island is for experienced riders only since it has the strongest winds in New Zealand.
Practical info
When is the best time to go kitesurfing or windsurfing in New Zealand?
New Zealand offers excellent opportunities for kitesurfing and windsurfing throughout the year. However, the windiest months are typically between September and December. During winter, a full wetsuit is needed to keep warm. Both North Island and South Island have an abundance of coastal and lake spots for kiteboarding. For experienced riders, Stewart Island is a top choice for water sports enthusiasts. Show more
Where are the best spots to go kitesurfing on the North Island?
Kitesurfers visiting New Zealand's North Island have many spots to choose from, including Shoal Bay, which is better suited to advanced riders. Beginners are recommended to visit Point Chevalier, which has shallow waters. For freestyle enthusiasts, Meola Reef is an excellent pick despite the absence of a beach to launch from. Show more
What other outdoor activities can you do in New Zealand?
New Zealand is the ideal destination for thrill-seekers as visitors can participate in several outdoor activities such as rafting, ziplining, and skydiving. A helicopter ride is a great way to marvel at the stunning views, while the brave can bungee jump off Kawarau Bridge in Queenstown. Furthermore, camping and hiking are perfect activities in New Zealand, with plenty of national parks and beautiful lakes to explore. Show more
What is Lake Clearwater's climate like?
Lake Clearwater, located in South Island New Zealand, is perfect for beginner kitesurfers due to its shallow and warm waters. However, temperatures in the region can drop at night, even during summer. Therefore, it's best to wear a full wetsuit whilst kitesurfing on the lake to keep warm. Show more
How windy can it get on Stewart Island?
Stewart Island, popular with experienced water sports enthusiasts, has the highest wind speeds in New Zealand, with gusts reaching a maximum of 40 knots. It is essential to talk to the locals and check the weather forecast before beginning a kiteboarding or windsurfing session. Furthermore, water temperatures are cold, and visitors should undertake adequate safety measures before indulging in any water sports activity. Show more
