2-Hour Surf Lesson at Mangawhai Heads Surf School, Te Arai
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic stamina and swimming ability recommended.
Overview
Mangawhai Heads Surf School’s 2-hour surf lesson at Te Arai offers beginners the perfect setting to catch their first waves. Learn essential surfing skills with expert instructors on the clean, consistent breaks of this northern New Zealand coastline.
2-Hour Surf Lesson
All Ages • All levels of surfer
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About This Adventure
Who For:
- Those who are completely new to surfing
- Those who are still in the beginner stage and want to improve their skills
- Those who haven’t been out in the water for awhile and need a little refresher course.
- Suitable for ages 6 and up.
Lesson Basics:
- Learn to understand and read the wind, waves and beach safety procedures.
- All about your surfboard – how to carry it, how to get into the ocean with it and more.
- How to catch waves – where to put your hand and feet on the board and how to paddle.
- How to get to your feet – mastering popping up on your board (in and out of the water).
- Riding along the wave – how to stand, where to point, how to position your body.
- Lesson Intermediates:
- How to turn the board – what movements to make with your feet and body,
- How to accelerate the board to get more speed.
- How to get out the back past all of the waves aka ‘rolling your board’ or ‘duck-diving’
- How to choose the best waves.
- When to start paddling and how to take off.
What’s Included:
- 2 hours of surf coaching.
- Your surfboard, wetsuit and a rash vest.
What To Bring:
- Swimmers
- A towel
- Sunscreen
- Water
Location:
Mangawhai Heads Surf Beach
Please note: All groups are kept to small numbers with friendly, qualified and experienced instructors.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early to Avoid Peak Crowds
Mornings tend to have less crowded waves, making it easier for beginners to focus and practice safely.
Wear Reef Booties if Sensitive to Rocky Bottoms
Some sections have sharp reef and rocky patches; protective booties can prevent scrapes while entering or exiting the water.
Bring Sunscreen with High SPF
Strong UV exposure is common on the beach; water-resistant sunscreen will protect your skin during the lesson.
Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks
Surfing is physically demanding, so keep water handy and listen to your body during lesson breaks.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Common New Zealand seabirds like the Tui and Caspian Tern
- Occasional sightings of dolphins offshore
History
The Te Arai coast holds cultural significance for the local Maori iwi, with traditional ties to the sea and fishing practices.
Conservation
Mangawhai Heads Surf School emphasizes low-impact surfing and participates in local efforts to protect coastal dune ecosystems.
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Adventure Hotspots in Auckland
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Swimsuit
Wear under your wetsuit or alone in warmer weather for comfort and mobility.
summer specific
Wetsuit
Provided by the school to protect against cool water and improve buoyancy.
spring|fall|winter specific
Water-resistant Sunscreen
Necessary to prevent sunburn during prolonged outdoor exposure.
summer|spring specific
Towel
To dry off and stay warm post-session.