Gnarlies

📍 Local Knowledge

Gnarlies in The Wairarapa is an exposed reef break that has fairly consistent surf, although summer tends to be mostly flat. The best conditions occur when an East groundswell combines with an offshore wind direction from the Northwest. There is no shelter from cross-shore breezes here, though waves can still be manageable in light onshore winds. Despite its classification as a reef break, there is no reef break at this specific spot. There are relatively few surfers here even on good days, but visitors should beware of hazards including rips, rocks, and seals.