The Gap

📍 Local Knowledge

The Gap (Castlepoint) in The Wairarapa is a sheltered beach break that has fairly consistent surf and can work at any time of the year. The best conditions occur when an East-southeast swell, consisting of windswells and groundswells in equal measure, combines with an offshore wind direction from the West-northwest. The spot offers some shelter from southwest winds and can handle light onshore breezes. The beach breaks tend to favor right-hand waves and provide good surf at all stages of the tide. It is often crowded, sometimes to the point of being dangerous. The best time of year for surfing The Gap with consistent, clean waves is during the winter, particularly the month of June.