Mangawhai Heads is a popular surf spot located on the east coast of New Zealand. It's known for being a favorite among locals and visitors alike, thanks to its consistent waves and beautiful scenery. The area features a rivermouth that enhances the surf conditions, attracting a good number of surfers ready to hit the water. The vibe here can get pretty lively, especially on good days when the waves are up.

The best surfing conditions at Mangawhai Heads usually happen with solid NE swells, especially at lower tides. The spot offers some decent lefts and rights, with the rivermouth creating fun wave shapes. It can handle swell sizes starting from about 1 foot (0.3 meters) and up, making it ideal for intermediate surfers. If you're looking to catch some waves, aim for low to mid-tide for the best experience. Winds from the west are preferable, as they help clean up the waves, making the ride smoother.

This area tends to be crowded, especially since it’s quite reliable for getting waves on the east coast. So, be prepared for some competition out in the water. It’s good to have a solid skill level, as the crowd can get a bit aggressive when the conditions are on point. If you’re an intermediate surfer, you'll likely find it both challenging and enjoyable here.