Surfing in Southland
4 surfing spots in Southland, 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 Southland: July–September (waves 1.5–1.6 m, water 10–11°C, 5/4 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves).
- Smaller waves and the warmest water, good for beginners: January–March (waves 0.6–0.9 m, water 16°C, 4/3 wetsuit).
- Top picks: Porpoise Bay, Ōreti Beach & Porridge (Pahia).
- For beginners: Porpoise Bay & Colac Bay / Ōraka.
Wave height: average daily maximum.
Month by month in Southland
| Month | Waves | Water | Wetsuit | Air |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JanuaryJan | 0.6 m | 16°C | 4/3 wetsuit | 17°C |
| FebruaryFeb | 0.7 m | 16°C | 4/3 wetsuit | 18°C |
| MarchMar | 0.9 m | 16°C | 4/3 wetsuit | 17°C |
| AprilApr | 1 m | 14°C | 5/4 wetsuit and boots | 15°C |
| MayMay | 1.2 m | 13°C | 5/4 wetsuit and boots | 13°C |
| JuneJun | 1.4 m | 12°C | 5/4 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves | 11°C |
| JulyJul | 1.5 m | 11°C | 5/4 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves | 10°C |
| AugustAug | 1.6 m | 10°C | 5/4 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves | 11°C |
| SeptemberSep | 1.5 m | 11°C | 5/4 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves | 12°C |
| OctoberOct | 1.3 m | 12°C | 5/4 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves | 13°C |
| NovemberNov | 1 m | 13°C | 5/4 wetsuit and boots | 15°C |
| DecemberDec | 0.8 m | 15°C | 5/4 wetsuit and boots | 16°C |
Averages of the 4 spots on this page. Best months highlighted. Air: average daytime high.
Questions
When is the best time for surfing in Southland?
Best waves in Southland: July–September (waves 1.5–1.6 m, water 10–11°C, 5/4 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves). Smaller waves and the warmest water, good for beginners: January–March (waves 0.6–0.9 m, water 16°C, 4/3 wetsuit).
What wetsuit do I need in Southland?
It depends on the month: about 16°C water in February (4/3 wetsuit) and about 10°C in August (5/4 wetsuit, hood, boots and gloves).
Is Southland good for beginners?
Yes, these spots suit beginners: Porpoise Bay & Colac Bay / Ōraka.
Which airport is closest?
Invercargill Airport (IVC), 66 km from Porpoise Bay.
