Makarori Point Surf Forecast Guide
Overview
Makarori Point is an excellent right-hand reef wave breaking over uneven reef and sand. It’s a long paddle out to a lengthy, meandering right that longboarders and cruisers like for cutback walls and a slower pace in southeast to south swells.
When the swell turns northeast to east, the shoulders get faster, with hollower sections and more push. The beachbreaks spreading north have quality peaks, with stable banks at Centres and Creeks helping spread people out.
When It Works
The optimal swell direction is northeast. The spot also breaks on swell from northeast through east-southeast to south.
Makarori Point is usable from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 3 m / 10 ft.
Wind and Tide
The offshore wind direction is northwest.
It can be surfed on low, mid, and high tide, with a rising tide better.
Local Tips
The crowd level is usually moderate, though the point can get a bit busy. The older longboard crew have a reputation for drop-ins, so stay aware in the lineup.
It can suit beginners, but the long paddle and reefy setup are worth keeping in mind. Patches of rock along the beach can catch you out at low tide.
Access
From Gisborne town centre, drive east on Gladstone Road onto Wainui Road and State Highway 35 toward Wainui. Continue past Wainui on Moana Road and onto Whangara Road. Makarori Point is the first point past Wainui, in the middle of Makarori Beach.
There are multiple car parks along the beach, with free parking and roadside parking available, so you can choose your peak.