Makarori North

Makarori North is a rocky reef-and-beach style surfing spot in the Gisborne area, known for producing a mellow, cruisy feel when it’s in. The wave setup is reef-based (with rocky hazards and submerged reef sections), so conditions generally benefit from matching swell and tide—particularly high tide—to avoid the shallowest rocks. Across the commonly described optimal window, the spot is typically best in August, and high tide is consistently called out as the preferred tide. A bigger swell is often needed to get the reef lines breaking well; when it activates, it tends to deliver fun-sized waves with a more relaxed, slow-rolling character rather than an aggressive, steep takeoff. Wind-wise, surf quality is helped when winds are offshore/clean. North/northeast winds are also described as working with the spot, while westerly or northwesterly offshore flow can groom the face. On very large swell, the reef can become heavy and may close out, so it’s generally not positioned as a big-wave destination. For safety, rocks and submerged reef are the key hazards, and rip-current risk has been noted near the point during larger swells. There are no lifeguards indicated, and rescue availability is described as not available. Local lineup guidance emphasizes respect for the reserved logger/longboard lines, and a helmet plus a leash/foot protection are recommended by available spot notes; wetsuit thickness typically ramps up in winter as water cools.