Papatowai
Edit SpotAbout
Chronic.
Atmosphere:
This wave is definitely a hard-core tow-in wave, although several locals paddle into it. Papas breaks with size several times a year but usually also has gale-force cross shore winds. The session in the photos is thought to be the biggest waves ever ridden in New Zealand with RCJ and Tony Ray comparing it to a Mavericks.
Location
Loading...Access
Between Papatowai and Tautuku on the Southern Scenic Route
| Walk | Good walk (15-30 min) |
|---|---|
| Public access | No |
| 4x4 required | Unknown |
| Boat required | Unknown |
Wave Characteristics
| Type | Reef (rocky) |
|---|---|
| Direction | Right |
| Bottom | Reef (coral, sharp rocks etc.) with sand |
| Power | Powerful |
| Frequency | Sometimes breaks (50 days/year) |
| Normal length | Long (150 to 300m) |
| Good day length | Very Long (300 to 500m) |
Ideal Conditions
| Wind direction | North, NorthWest, West |
|---|---|
| Swell direction | SouthWest, South |
| Swell size | 8ft-10ft - 16ft and over |
| Tide | Don't know |
| Tide movement | Don't know |
Crowd
| Week | Empty |
|---|---|
| Weekend | Empty |
Dangers
None
Videos
None
Nearby spots
Dinner Plates
18.26 miles away
| Direction: | Right |
| Bottom: | Reef (coral, sharp rocks etc.) |
| Frequency: | Don't know |
Porpoise Bay
22.31 miles away
| Direction: | Right and left |
| Bottom: | Sandy with rock |
| Frequency: | Regular (100 days/year) |