Kick off a memorable summer with a two-day surf program at Mangawhai Heads, perfect for young beginners eager to ride their first waves. Learn more about this exciting family-friendly adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for kids in average physical condition, able to swim
Wildlife
History
Mangawhai has been a significant Māori fishing and trading site for centuries, with a rich cultural heritage reflected in its community today.
Conservation
The surf school emphasizes ocean stewardship and promotes eco-friendly practices to preserve this pristine environment.
Aotearoa Surf School
Kick off a memorable summer with a two-day surf program at Mangawhai Heads, perfect for young beginners eager to ride their first waves. Learn more about this exciting family-friendly adventure.
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.
Apply Sunscreen Regularly
Ensure your child re-applys sunscreen frequently to avoid sunburns during beach activities.
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water to keep kids hydrated during active surf sessions.
Use ISO-B certified gear
All equipment is provided but confirm gear safety standards before use.
Arrive Early
Get to the beach ahead of time to suit up and familiarize with the environment.
Swimsuit
A comfortable swimsuit is essential for water activities.
summer
Rash Guard
Protects against sunburn and surfboard rash.
summer
Sun Hat
Offers added sun protection for beach and sand time.
summer
Water Bottle
Keeps kids hydrated during outdoor activities.
summer