Looking to ride the iconic East Coast waves or paddle in pristine waters? Aotearoa Surf School in Mangawhai offers top gear rentals and expert support for water adventurers of all kinds. Discover why this spot is a must-visit for surf and paddle sports enthusiasts.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
Variable, based on activity
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness level needed for paddling or surfing; some stamina helpful
Wildlife
History
Mangawhai’s surf culture grew from early European settlers and has since become a vibrant outdoor community.
Conservation
The business is committed to eco-friendly practices, including proper waste management and encouraging visitors to leave no trace.
Aotearoa Surf School
Looking to ride the iconic East Coast waves or paddle in pristine waters? Aotearoa Surf School in Mangawhai offers top gear rentals and expert support for water adventurers of all kinds. Discover why this spot is a must-visit for surf and paddle sports enthusiasts.
Aotearoa Surf School operates surf lessons, rentals and ocean programs based in Mangawhai, Northland, with regular sessions at Orewa Beach and Te Arai. The school delivers structured surf education for children and adults, offering multi-day kids’ summer programs, school-holiday camps, after-school lessons and specialised sessions such as womens’ fitness and corporate or group bookings.
Instructors at Aotearoa Surf School provide tailored coaching for beginners through intermediate surfers. Lessons frequently include beach safety, wave selection, paddling technique and standing drills. Equipment — including surfboards and wetsuits — is supplied for lessons and hires, and the business runs dedicated services such as birthday surf parties, private one-on-one lessons, paddleboard tours on Mangawhai Harbour and short two-hour lessons for first-time surfers.
Programs target young learners (commonly ages 6–16) with age-appropriate lesson plans, small group ratios and supervised beach activities. The school also offers hire options for boards, wetsuits, kayaks and paddleboards at Mangawhai and Te Arai for independent surf and water-time.
Aotearoa Surf School emphasises safe, supportive instruction and practical ocean skills. Booking options include group bookings, private coaching and multi-day programs. Locations served in the region include Mangawhai Heads Beach, Orewa Beach and Te Arai Beach, making it accessible for families and visitors along Auckland’s East Coast and Northland.
Location
Mangawhai, Northland
Operates at Mangawhai, Orewa, Te Arai
Age Range
Ages 6–16
Programs for children and teens
Experiences
15 programs
Lessons, hires, parties and groups
Equipment
Boards & wetsuits
Gear supplied for lessons and hires
Find the right lesson, hire or party package in Mangawhai, Orewa or Te Arai — check availability and book a session today.
Check local weather conditions
Always review the daily surf and weather forecasts to ensure optimal and safe water conditions.
Use appropriate gear
Wear wetsuits and equipped safety gear suited to your activity and weather for a safer experience.
Transport gear carefully
Utilize soft racks provided by the lodge to ensure secure and damage-free transport of equipment.
Respect local surfers
Follow surf etiquette and be mindful of shared waves to promote friendly water interactions.
Wetsuit
Keeps you warm in cooler water temperatures and increases comfort during extended sessions.
spring
Surfboard or Paddleboard
Provides the necessary buoyancy and performance for catching waves or paddling.
Waterproof Sunscreen
Protects your skin from UV rays during prolonged exposure to sun and surf.
Dry Bag
Keeps your valuables and electronics safe and dry while on the water.