Overview
Albatross Point is a remote left-hand point that breaks over uneven reef. It needs a huge swell to refract around into Arohaki Bay, where it fans out into multiple left points, and it rewards the effort with a genuinely good wave when it all comes together.
When It Works
The point draws swell from southwest through northwest (SW-NW), with southwest the best match. It works from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 1.8 m / 6 ft, and it is best thought of as a big-swell spot, since it takes plenty of size to wrap into the bay. Expect it to be somewhat inconsistent, with worthwhile windows when a large swell lines up.
Wind and Tide
Look for a south offshore wind to clean it up. It can work through low, mid, and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
The wave suits intermediate surfers, and the lineup stays quiet even when it is on.
Access
Getting here is the hard part. The overland route runs southwest from Hamilton toward Taharoa, and from there you need to see the farmer about crossing his land, so knowing someone who can negotiate that permission is essential. The alternative is a boat from Kawhia Harbour, which again relies on local knowledge. Parking is restricted.
