Surf Highway 45 runs the coast between New Plymouth and Hāwera with headlands, reefs and long black sand stretches under the gaze of Mt Taranaki. It is a pick-your-spot kind of coastline. A campervan lets you follow wind and tide, wait for the right bank and warm up after salt-blown sessions.
Chase clean mornings, tuck in behind points when the wind swings and keep an eye on fast-moving weather off the Tasman.
Area at a glance
Highway 45 links a string of surf towns and farm gates on Taranaki’s west coast. Access tracks lead to reefs and beach breaks that light up with different wind and swell angles. Distances are short, views are big and conditions change fast.
Why a campervan helps here
- Keep boards, suits and a rinse kit ready between spots
- Make hot drinks and lunch while waiting for the tide to turn
- Sleep close to points for early paddles and empty lineups
- Flex north or south when wind shifts without packing everything again
Best time to visit
Year round with different moods. Autumn and winter bring solid swells and clean offshore mornings. Spring is playful with variable wind. Summer is warmer with lighter gear but can be windier in the afternoons. Early and late are your calmest windows.
Simple surf day ideas
Option A: North from New Plymouth
- Dawn check near Fitzroy then down the coast for points and reefs
- Late morning snack from the van and a second surf on the push
- Evening return to town for sunset views of the mountain
If wind rises, look for headlands that offer a wind shadow.
Option B: South of Ōpunakē
- Morning reef check around Ōpunakē
- Midday cruise to sheltered corners near Cape Egmont
- Late session on the turning tide, then coast road back with photo stops
Respect private land. Use signed beach access and park clear of farm gates.
Breaks and lookouts
- Town beaches near New Plymouth for easy access and patrols in summer
- Point and reef setups around Ōakura, Ōpunakē and Cape Egmont
- Black sand stretches with Tasman views for long walks and photos
Surf etiquette and safety
- Know your limits. Rips and rock shelves are common
- Share the lineup and wait your turn on crowded days
- Keep clear of fishermen and respect local users
- Pack out all rubbish and avoid driving on dunes
What to bring
- Wetsuits for the season, booties for reefs and winter
- Two boards if possible: one for punchy reefs, one for softer beach days
- Rinse water, changing mat and a line to dry gear
- Windbreaker, beanie and a thermos for cold offshore mornings
- Offline maps and a tyre gauge if exploring gravel access roads
Driving and overnight notes
- Many access roads are narrow or unsealed. Go slow and give way to farm traffic
- Holiday parks and campgrounds sit along the route. Book in peak periods
- Freedom camping is restricted in places. Use signed areas and follow local rules
- Strong winds can rattle high-roof vans. Park nose to wind and use chocks
Search Campervans — Live Availability
Make Surf Highway easy
A campervan turns wind and tide watching into a relaxed day. Check a few spots, wait for the bank to line up and warm up between sessions with food and dry gear on hand.
Event Campers shows live availability from trusted rental brands so you can compare layouts and prices in one place. Choose what suits and let Taranaki’s coast set the pace.
