Overview
Oamaru Harbour is a right-hand reef break that peels off the northeastern tip of the harbour, at the end of the MacAndrew breakwater. It breaks over a mix of uneven reef and sand, and it can be inconsistent, so it takes the right swell to switch on. The wave is fairly modest overall, but a fun option when the setup lines up.
When It Works
When a decent-sized swell fills in, a short, fast right runs off the end of the point. It draws swell from the northeast-to-southeast window, with northeast the best direction, and works from 0.9 m / 3 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft. If nothing is breaking off the wall, check the beaches just south of the headland.
Wind and Tide
Look for a southwest offshore wind. It comes to life on mid and high tide, with a rising tide the better call.
Local Tips
This one suits intermediate surfers, and the lineup usually stays fairly quiet.
Access
From State Highway 1 heading south, veer left into the old part of town on Thames Street, then turn left onto Itchen Street, right onto Tyne Street, and left onto Arun Street. From there you can park at the end of Waterfront Road or turn onto Marine Parade to find a spot, with free roadside parking on offer. Suit up, walk out along one of the breakwaters, and paddle across to the break at the end of the point. Keep an eye out for boat traffic around the harbour entrance.
