Surfing In and Around Canterbury

Surfing is a fantastic way to combine the great outdoors with affordable entertainment. And when you're based in Christchurch, your hire car lets you take advantage of the many surf breaks on the Canterbury coast and surrounding areas.

Close to central Christchurch are the popular beaches of Sumner and New Brighton. Both provide easy to intermediate surfing with an easterly swell. Playgrounds close to both beaches provide fun for younger people, so no one gets left out. And if you do need extra gear or just want to browse, retail outlets like Urban Surf, Outer Island Surf and SeventhWave Wetsuits aren't far from the water.

Just over the hill from Sumner is the famous Taylors Mistake. Swells come in from the north or north-east, and it's normal to get peaks and tubes over a metre high. Check out conditions on the Taylors Mistake webcam before loading your board into the hire car.

A trip to Banks Peninsula lets you sightsee and surf, as the road takes you through the picturesque town of Little River and provides incredible views of Akaroa Harbour. Here, Hickory Bay is a spot that attracts surfers from all over the South Island. You'll probably meet a south-east swell here and waves from both the left and right, as well as local wildlife like seals and sea birds.

South of Christchurch are long stretches of beach and river mouths, giving surfers their pick of spots far from the crowds. The coastline between Oamaru and the fishing village of Moeraki, home of the unique Moeraki Boulders, is known for great surf breaks. And if you decide to stay at the Moeraki Motor Camp, be prepared for temptation at world-famous seafood restaurant Fleur's Place.

When heading north of Christchurch, Kaikoura is a place all surfers should stop. But before you reach Kaikoura, look for the Kahutara turnoff, especially if there's a southerly swell. Surf reserves have recently been suggested for the Kaikoura region, including the Kahutara River, so this break is worth exploring. The rocky coastline north of the township is known for challenging yet rewarding spots such as The Meatworks, which are legendary to locals.

So if you're in Canterbury with your hire car and board, you've come to the right place. Here you have your pick of easy or challenging breaks, as well as stunning scenery – perfect for long surfing holidays or for just catching a quick wave while you're staying in the city.