Papatowai

📍 Local Knowledge

Papatowai in the Catlins is an exposed beach and river mouth break with inconsistent surf and no strong seasonal pattern. The best surf occurs with a south-southeast swell and offshore winds from the west, typically during winter—most often in June—when clean, rideable waves are more likely. The break receives an even mix of groundswells and windswells, produces both lefts and rights, and works best around high tide. The area is rarely crowded, but surfers should watch out for strong rips and the potential presence of sharks.