Photo / Tātaki Auckland UnlimitedAnother world-renowned destination, Piha boasts good peaks on both sides of towering Lion Rock. Photo / Jereme AubertinLaidback Whaingaroa Raglan is built on surf culture ... well, that and some of the planet’s best coffee and ice cream. Famed for the world’s longest left-hand rides, up to 2km or 10 minutes, Manu Bay is best for advanced to expert surfers. Photo / 123rfSimply one of our best surf destinations, Whangamatā offers three distinct options. The Sweet-as SpotThis spot didn’t make it to our finalists list but we think it’s one of New Zealand’s best.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 20, 2026 03:27 UTC