Tom Bowling Bay (Te Hiku)

Tom Bowling Bay is an exposed sandy beach break at the northeastern tip of Northland, reached via difficult, remote access routes (4WD, long walks along 90 Mile Beach, or kayak). The spot is known for fairly consistent surf and typically works best around mid tide, with favorable wind conditions from the south. For surfing, conditions are described as very remote and exposed, with peel-friendly waves over a sandy bottom. Both left- and right-handers are reported, and northerly swell is noted as a scenario that can produce longer rides (when the swell is clean), though overall wave quality is described as average. Shelter is limited, so conditions are strongly shaped by exposure to the open coast and nearby headlands. Wind-related notes for the wider area indicate frontal/gradient patterns, and the spot itself is repeatedly flagged as best from south winds. Kite conditions are described as potentially suitable with excellent wind conditions, but there is not enough verified detail here to state specific kite styles or sizing. Safety is a major theme: hazards include extreme isolation, strong rip currents possible near headlands, sharks, and isolated submerged rocks near the headlands. There is no cell reception and no dedicated rescue services on-site, so self-sufficiency is essential. Visitors are advised to tell someone their plans before leaving and to carry more water and food than expected, given the remoteness and limited facilities.