Tuhawaiki Point (Canterbury)

Tuhawaiki Point is an exposed left-hand point break on a rocky headland near Scarborough (South Canterbury, Timaru District). It’s described as working infrequently and without a strong seasonal pattern, but it can come to life when the swell wraps around the point and the wind supports it—particularly on west winds. When conditions align, the wave is typically described as peeling with moderate wave power, and it can produce medium-length rides. On a good day, rides can extend up to around 150 meters, with typical rides reported around 100 meters. Access is via the walking track to the Jacks Point Lighthouse. The landing area is rocky with shallow boulders, and both entry and exit can be very slippery—so booties are strongly recommended if you’re not used to rocky starts. Currents/rips can form along the point, especially during larger swells, and the spot has reported hazards including rocks and sharks. Safety-wise, there are no lifeguards at the spot and rescue availability is limited (coastguard coverage). The spot is best at high tide, which helps cover the shallowest rocks. Water temperatures are cool to cold year-round, so a spring wetsuit and/or summer suit (for short sessions) is often sufficient, while winter typically calls for a thicker full suit with added protection (boots/hood depending on conditions).