North Island · Explorer’s field notes

How to Raglan

Legendary left-hand surf breaks, black-sand beaches and a laid-back creative harbour town on the west coast.

Raglan videos from the Hôtel du Van founders are coming soon to the Stay Scene channel.

AVOID · Raglan

What to avoid in Raglan

Parking along Wainui Road at Manu Bay on big-swell days — the lookout fills early.
Surfing the points without experience — they are rocky and crowded.
Arriving via the Hamilton road on a Sunday evening, when traffic returns to the city.

The top ten

Places to explore, eat and stock up along the way.

1See & do
Manu Bay
Watch surfers ride one of the world's longest left-hand breaks.
Wainui Road, Raglan 3297
2See & do
Ngarunui Beach
Patrolled black-sand beach, ideal for a first surf lesson.
Ngarunui Beach Road, Raglan 3297
3See & do
Bridal Veil Falls
A 55-metre plunge through native bush, ten minutes' walk from the car park.
Kawhia Road, Te Mata 3791
4See & do
Raglan Wharf
Galleries, fish & chips and harbour kayak hire on the old wharf.
2 Wallis Street, Raglan 3225
5See & do
Mount Karioi
The 'sleeping lady' — a forested climb with Tasman Sea views.
Whaanga Road, Raglan 3297
6See & do
Raglan Footbridge
Summer tradition: locals leap into the inlet at high tide.
Bow Street, Raglan 3225
7Eat
The Shack
Raglan's favourite brunch spot, all-day eggs and good vibes.
19 Bow Street, Raglan 3225
8Coffee
Raglan Roast
A hole-in-the-wall roaster with serious coffee.
Volcom Lane, 5 Bow Street, Raglan 3225
9Eat
Rock-It Kitchen
Relaxed café-kitchen near the surf beaches.
Wainui Road, Raglan 3297
10Eat
Wharf Kitchen & Bar
Seafood and sunsets over the harbour.
Raglan Wharf, 2 Wallis Street, Raglan 3225

Do not make these mistakes!

1. Swimming outside the flags
Ngarunui has strong rips. Only swim between the red and yellow flags.
2. Freedom camping in town
Raglan bylaws restrict it. Use the Raglan Holiday Park or certified sites.
3. Jumping off the footbridge at low tide
Only jump at high tide — the channel is shallow otherwise.

Continue the voyage

Photos are AI-generated illustrations. Opening hours and rules change — check before you go.