Raglan, New Zealand: Small Town, Big Waves

Raglan’s perched on the west coast of New Zealand, bordered by rolling green farmland and the rough Tasman Sea.  A small town of 3,000, Raglan’s known for its environmental activism, laid-back beach culture and, above all else, surf.  

Surf:

With some of the longest lefts in all of New Zealand, surfers flock here from around the world.  

New surfers should head to Manu Bay, the first prominent surf spot south west of town.  If you’re a complete novice, try a lesson from Raglan Surfing School.

More experienced? Paddle out at legendary Whale Bay, a wave that varies significantly depending on swell (best between 3 and 8 feet).  If WB is overcrowded, you can always head to Indicators, an outstanding spot for confident surfers.

Swim:

Not sold on the surf? Skip the rocky breaks and kick back at one of the famous black sand beaches.  Ngarunui beach is just a short drive from town, picture-perfect for a lazy beach day.  If the family’s in tow, visit Te Kopua beach, a scenic spot for picnics with swim-friendly currents. To get to Te Kopua from town, you’ll traverse a footbridge; hucking off the walkway at high tide is a right of passage for Raglan tourists.  

Hike:

If the swell’s low or you’re ready to explore inland, hike to the top of Raglan’s sleeping lady, Mt. Karioi.  Start on the coast at the Te Toto Gorge trailhead off of Whaanga road. Scramble through the lush forest for around 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach the summit; enjoy the cosmic view of New Zealand’s North Island before heading down the other side of the mountain on the Wairake trail (slightly shorter).  Make sure you arrange for transportation if you don’t plan on an out-and-back hike. 

Sleep:

Solscape, a singular ecolodge, caters to a variety of budgets. They offer everything from van camping and converted train cabooses to full houses.  The lodge is a short walk from the beach and affords views of the amazing coastline. Take yoga classes overlooking the ocean one minute; sign up for a surf lesson the next.  

Eat/Drink:

The bean-roasting specialists at Raglan Roast make best coffee in town.  For happy hour, anchor up at the Yot Club, a spot known for eccentric live music.  As far as food goes, stop by the main drag’s Blacksand Café, where the fish burger can’t be beat