Waitara Bar is a river-mouth break that peels over boulders and sand where the Waitara River meets the sea. It throws up both lefts and rights and holds a decent wave when it lines up. On the East Beach side, tidy A-frame peaks form, while across the river a good left can appear, and there are reefs scattered around the area too.
When It Works
The bar draws swell from southwest through north, with northwest the best match. It comes alive when a solid winter swell is running and the wind stays calm, which is unusual for this region, or blows from the south. On those days, excellent peaks pound the pebbles and shifting sandbars at the rivermouth. It works from 0.9 m / 3 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft. Consistency can be hit or miss here, so it pays to catch it on the right day.
Wind and Tide
Look for a southeast offshore wind to clean things up. The bar favours high tide, and a rising tide is generally the better call.
Local Tips
This one suits intermediate surfers. Expect a moderately busy lineup when it's working.
Access
From New Plymouth city centre, head east on Devon Street East and continue onto State Highway 3 out of town. Near Waitara, turn left onto Devon Street and then Nelson Street heading into town. The road bends right onto McLean Street and crosses the Waitara River. Turn left onto Leslie Street, then left onto Howard Street, which brings you to the beach on the eastern side of the river, along with the board riders club. There's a car park at the beach, and camping is available.
