NZ surf breaks could become national parks

Six of New Zealand's best surf breaks will get national park status if a new coastal policy proposed by the Department of Conservation goes ahead.

The surf breaks are all of national significance and include: Shipwrecks in Ahipara, Northland; Raglan on the west coast of the North Island; Stent Road in Taranaki and White Rock in the Wairarapa, both in the North Island; Mangamaunu near Kaikoura on the east coast of the South Island, and Papatowai in the Catlins, Otago, South Island.

All six would become protected surfing reserves.

Surfing NZ and Surfers Environmental Advocacy say protecting the breaks is essential because other surf spots considered expendable in the past have been destroyed.

A famous wave in Mundaca, Spain which was considered one of the worldâs greatest breaks disappeared after dredging to deepen a harbour destroyed the sand bars.

Surfing reserves are seen as the only way of ensuring waves are protected, with both access by surfers and the swell guaranteed. The reserves would also prevent activities like high density mussel farming.

Australia has already established surfing reserves in New South Wales and Victoria.

The New Zealand coastal policy hearings will conclude in mid-December and recommendations will then be sent to the Minister of Conservation.

New Zealand is seen as one of the worldâs top surfing spots with quality waves, plenty of choice and relatively few surfers. The main source of swell for both the North and South Islands is from the low pressure systems of the roaring forties but New Zealand is fortunate to pick up swell from just about anywhere.

Waves can be generated from the south, west from the Tasman Sea, north from cyclone systems and east from depressions. New Zealandâs best known surf spot is Raglan in the North Island - half way down the west coast with a good left hand point that appears endless.

The Taranaki Peninsular offers lots of quality spots within a short distance. It is renowned for great waves and finding the ideal wind conditions is as easy as driving along the coast road - Surf Highway 45.

The South Island is colder particularly in winter but quality, empty surf more than makes up for the temperature. Top surfing spots are the Catlins on the south east coast where big wave surfing is the key attraction, the Dunedin coast which offers a variety of breaks, and Kaikoura's powerful reefs and points.

Image shows Raglan's left handed surf break.