Surfing in Gisborne
3 surfing spots in Gisborne, New Zealand. The colours show each month: the stronger, the better for surfing.
Updated November 2026 · weather data 2022–2026
In short
- Best waves in Gisborne: April–September (waves 1.4–1.9 m, water 13–19°C, 5/4 wetsuit and boots).
- Smaller waves and the warmest water, good for beginners: January–March, December (waves 1.1–1.3 m, water 19–20°C, 3/2 wetsuit).
- Top picks: Gisborne – Wainui Beach, Makorori & Gisborne – Midway Beach.
- For beginners: Gisborne – Wainui Beach, Makorori & Gisborne – Midway Beach.
Wave height: average daily maximum.
Month by month in Gisborne
| Month | Waves | Water | Wetsuit | Air |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JanuaryJan | 1.1 m | 20°C | 3/2 wetsuit | 22°C |
| FebruaryFeb | 1.1 m | 20°C | 3/2 wetsuit | 23°C |
| MarchMar | 1.3 m | 20°C | 3/2 wetsuit | 21°C |
| AprilApr | 1.4 m | 19°C | 3/2 wetsuit | 19°C |
| MayMay | 1.6 m | 17°C | 4/3 wetsuit | 17°C |
| JuneJun | 1.8 m | 15°C | 5/4 wetsuit and boots | 15°C |
| JulyJul | 1.9 m | 14°C | 5/4 wetsuit and boots | 14°C |
| AugustAug | 1.8 m | 13°C | 5/4 wetsuit and boots | 14°C |
| SeptemberSep | 1.6 m | 14°C | 5/4 wetsuit and boots | 17°C |
| OctoberOct | 1.5 m | 15°C | 5/4 wetsuit and boots | 18°C |
| NovemberNov | 1.2 m | 17°C | 4/3 wetsuit | 21°C |
| DecemberDec | 1.1 m | 19°C | 3/2 wetsuit | 23°C |
Averages of the 3 spots on this page. Best months highlighted. Air: average daytime high.
Questions
When is the best time for surfing in Gisborne?
Best waves in Gisborne: April–September (waves 1.4–1.9 m, water 13–19°C, 5/4 wetsuit and boots). Smaller waves and the warmest water, good for beginners: January–March, December (waves 1.1–1.3 m, water 19–20°C, 3/2 wetsuit).
What wetsuit do I need in Gisborne?
It depends on the month: about 20°C water in February (3/2 wetsuit) and about 13°C in August (5/4 wetsuit and boots).
Is Gisborne good for beginners?
Yes, these spots suit beginners: Gisborne – Wainui Beach, Makorori & Gisborne – Midway Beach.
Which airport is closest?
Gisborne Airport (GIS), 9 km from Gisborne – Wainui Beach.
