Graveyards is a good-quality left-hand point break in Taranaki, breaking over boulders. The long, sectiony lefts are usually the pick of the day, though short rights also peel off the peak and can hand bodyboarders the occasional barrel.
When It Works
The point draws swell from southwest through north, with southwest the best direction for lining up those long lefts. It works from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft, and it's a consistent spot that comes to life often enough to be worth checking regularly.
Wind and Tide
Look for a southeast offshore wind to clean it up. The point works across all tides, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
Graveyards suits intermediate surfers. Expect a moderately busy lineup when it fires.
Access
Park at the beach on Paora Road, where there's free roadside parking and restrooms. From New Plymouth, head southwest on Devon Street West, then onto South Road (the Surf Highway, State Highway 45). Continue through Okato, turn right onto Paora Road and follow it to the end. From there it's a short walk north to the next point, where the left is breaking.
