Overview
Three Points, also known as Marau Point, is a set of right-hand pointbreaks northeast of Gisborne that gets plenty of talk but sees little traffic. The waves peel over a mix of boulders and sand, and the quality is excellent when everything lines up. Just offshore, Motuori Island picks up rights on its north side in east swells, so there's more than one option in the area.
When It Works
The points draw swell from northeast through east-southeast to south (NE-ESE-S), with southeast (SE) the best match, and a medium east swell will also switch them on. They're usable from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 3 m / 10 ft. Consistency is moderate, so timing your window matters, but when the points aren't cooking there are decent beachbreaks nearby to fall back on.
Wind and Tide
Look for west (W) offshore wind. The points can work through most of the tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
This is an expert wave. Because of the access, it's rarely surfed, but expect a moderate crowd on the days it works.
Access
Getting here is the main barrier. From Gisborne town centre, head east on Gladstone Road onto Wainui Road and State Highway 35 toward Wainui, then continue past Wainui on Moana Road and onto Whangara Road. Just past Tolaga Bay, turn right onto Kaiaua Road, which turns to gravel and runs down to the beach at Kaiaua. From there it's roughly a 2 km walk northeast over the point to the next bay, and you'll need the farmer's permission to cross his land. Parking is restricted.
