If you're searching for the best surf shop Gisborne has to offer, one name consistently rises to the top: Blitz Surf Shop. We're not just any store; we're the original, the local hub, and the ultimate destination for all things surf and skate. Since 1983, we’ve been the heart of the Gisborne board-riding scene, right here from our iconic spot on Wainui Road.
The Heartbeat of the Gisborne Surf Scene Since 1983
Welcome to Blitz, the cornerstone of Gizzy's legendary surf culture. For over four decades, our family-owned store has been the first stop for locals and travellers chasing that perfect wave on New Zealand's beautiful East Coast. We're far more than just a place to buy gear—we’re a community hub, built on a shared passion for riding waves, skating pavement, and living the coastal life.
This guide will walk you through everything Blitz provides. We’ll dive into our huge range of surfboards, bodyboards, skate gear, wetsuits, clothing, footwear, sunglasses, and surf accessories. We'll also cover our popular hire services—including surf, bodyboard, and wetsuit hire for the waves, and tyre tube hire for the famous Rere Rockslide. Think of us as your local connection, here to make sure your Gisborne adventure is unforgettable.
An Iconic Gisborne Institution
You can't miss us on Wainui Road. Our prime position makes us a high-visibility hotspot, with an estimated more than 22,000 cars cruising past our doors daily during the summer months. As one of just two dedicated surf shops in Gisborne, we've long cemented our place as the go-to for all things surf and skate. You can even read more about our story as a landmark Gisborne business on nzherald.co.nz.
Our legacy is built on a simple idea: provide the best gear, give honest, expert advice, and offer a friendly welcome to everyone who walks through our doors. It’s this commitment that has made us the surf shop Gisborne locals and visitors have trusted for generations.
"From day one, our mission has been to fuel the passion for board riding in Gisborne. We're not just selling products; we're sharing a lifestyle and helping create lifelong memories on the water and the pavement."
Your Local Source for Surf and Skate
Gisborne is the undisputed surf capital of New Zealand, and for good reason—the variety of waves here is incredible. Understanding this unique environment is at the core of what we do every day. If you want to get the full picture, check out our deep dive into why Gisborne is the surf capital of New Zealand.
Finding Your Perfect Ride: Gisborne's Best Surfboards & Skate Decks
The right board under your feet can be the difference between a good session and a great one. We get it. Whether you're eyeing up a set at Wainui Beach or planning to hit the local skatepark, we’ve got the hardgoods and the know-how to get you sorted. As the premier destination for surfboards Gisborne wide, we make finding your perfect ride easy.
Stepping into a surf shop can be overwhelming—boards everywhere, all different shapes, sizes, and tech. Our goal is to cut through the noise. We’ve hand-picked a range of surfboards that work for every ability level and whatever conditions Gizzy decides to throw at us.
Gisborne Surfboards for Every Wave
Finding the right surfboard is a bit like choosing a tool for a job. What a pro needs to rip won't be what a grom needs for their first wave. Our board racks reflect that, with everything from forgiving foamies to high-performance weapons.
Here’s a look at what you’ll find on the shop floor:
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Softboards (Soft-tops): These foam surfboards are the ultimate starting point. With a soft foam deck, heaps of volume for stability, and safe fins, they make catching waves a whole lot easier and safer. They’re perfect for your first paddle-out or for kids building their confidence in the white water.
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Mid-lengths and Funboards: The sweet spot between a longboard and a shortboard. These boards are seriously versatile. They paddle into waves easily but still let you lay into proper turns, making them a fantastic choice for intermediates or anyone just looking for a cruisey all-rounder.
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Longboards: For that classic glide, smooth style, and the ability to catch waves on the smallest days, you can't beat a longboard. They’re brilliant for all skill levels, offering a stable platform for beginners and letting experienced surfers perfect their cross-stepping and nose-riding.
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High-Performance Shortboards: For the advanced surfer wanting to make the most of Gisborne's punchier waves, we stock a premium range of shortboards from world-class shapers like Firewire and Slater Designs. These are built for speed, tight turns, and taking your surfing to the next level.
There’s more to a board than just its length. Volume is a massive factor, affecting how well it paddles and how stable it feels. To get your head around this, check out our guide on how to choose the right surfboard volume for your weight and skill level.
From the Boardwalk to the Bowl: Skate Gear in Gisborne
Our love for board sports doesn’t end where the sand meets the pavement. Blitz is also one of Gisborne's go-to skate shops, stocked with everything you need to get rolling. Whether you're a seasoned skater building a custom setup or a surfer wanting to cross-train on flat days, we've got you covered.
Our skate department has all the bases covered:
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Complete Skateboards: Ready to roll straight out the door. Our completes are perfect for beginners or anyone who wants a quality setup without the fuss of putting it all together themselves.
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Carver Surfskates: Want to nail your cutback when the waves are flat? Carver skateboards are designed to mimic the feel of surfing on concrete. They’re an awesome training tool for dialling in your flow, turns, and body mechanics.
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Longboards & Cruisers: Perfect for cruising the boardwalk, getting around town, or just a mellow roll. Our longboards and cruisers offer a smooth, stable ride for those chilled-out sessions.
At Blitz, we believe the right board—whether it’s for surfing or skating—can completely elevate your experience. Our team is made up of passionate riders who use this gear every day, and we're here to share that knowledge with you.
Expert Advice You Can Trust
More than just a massive wall of boards, what really makes Blitz the best surf shop Gisborne has is our crew. We aren't just salespeople; we're the local surfers and skaters you'll see out in the water or at the park. We’ve tested the gear, we know the local spots inside-out, and we're here to give you honest, real-world advice.
We’ll help you figure out the difference between a twin-fin and a thruster, or explain what wheel durometer means in plain English. Our goal is simple: to make sure you walk out with gear you're absolutely stoked on—gear that will genuinely help you have more fun. Pop in for a chat anytime, the advice is always free.
Gear Up with Wetsuits, Apparel, and Surf Accessories
Got your board sorted? Awesome. Now for the rest of your kit. At Blitz, we’re your one-stop Gisborne surf shop for everything you need, from high-performance wetsuits to stylish clothing, footwear, sunglasses, and essential surf accessories.
But it’s not all about what happens in the water. Blitz is also the go-to spot for surf and skate style, so you’ll be looking sharp on dry land, too. We’ve got everything to cover you from head to toe, keeping you warm, protected, and looking the part.
Wetsuits for Every Gisborne Season
Gisborne’s water temperature can be a real rollercoaster, swinging from beautiful balmy highs in summer to some properly chilly lows in the dead of winter. The right wetsuit is the key to getting more time in the water, simple as that. We stock a massive range of wetsuits from the big guns like O'Neill and Rip Curl, so you’re getting top-tier neoprene tech that’s built to last.
We’ve got options for men, women, and groms, covering all the styles and thicknesses you'll need for our East Coast waters.
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Steamers (Full Suits): This is your year-round workhorse. A 3/2mm steamer is spot-on for autumn and spring, while a warmer 4/3mm suit is a must-have for getting through the depths of winter. We have different entry systems, like chest zips for awesome flexibility or back zips if you prefer something easier to get in and out of.
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Spring Suits: When the water finally warms up for summer, a springy (short arms and legs) hits that sweet spot of core warmth and total freedom of movement for those long sessions under the sun.
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Wetsuit Vests and Jackets: Perfect for those scorching summer days when all you need is a bit of a buffer from the wind or sun without the bulk of a full suit.
Choosing the right thickness can seem a bit confusing, but it really just boils down to the time of year. For a full breakdown, have a read of our complete NZ wetsuit thickness guide, which explains the difference between a 3/2 and a 4/3 and what you really need.
Wetsuit Guide for Gisborne Waters
| Season | Water Temperature (Approx.) | Recommended Wetsuit Thickness | Essential Accessories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (Dec-Feb) | 18-21°C | 2mm Spring Suit / 3/2mm Steamer | Sunscreen, Rash Vest |
| Autumn (Mar-May) | 15-18°C | 3/2mm Steamer | |
| Winter (Jun-Aug) | 12-15°C | 4/3mm Steamer | Booties, Hood, Gloves |
| Spring (Sep-Nov) | 14-17°C | 3/2mm Steamer | Booties (optional) |
This table gives you a solid starting point, but remember everyone feels the cold differently!
Complete Your Kit with Essential Surf Accessories
A wetsuit is just the start. The right wetsuit accessories not only make you more comfortable but can add precious minutes, or even hours, to your surf session—especially when the temperature really drops. We stock everything from fins, leashes, and wax to board bags and repair kits.
Staying warm is the key to longer, better surfs. Investing in quality boots, gloves, and a hood is one of the smartest things a Gisborne surfer can do to conquer the cold and score waves all winter long.
We stock everything you need to build a complete thermal shield against the cold:
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Booties: A winter essential. Booties keep your feet from going numb and give you extra grip on your board. They’re also handy for protecting your feet from rocks.
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Gloves: When the water gets properly cold, your hands are the first to suffer. A good pair of surf gloves keeps your fingers working and warm.
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Hoods: You lose a surprising amount of body heat through your head. A wetsuit hood makes a huge difference in staying warm and stopping that dreaded "ice-cream headache" on frosty dawn patrols.
From the Beach to the Street: Clothing, Footwear & Sunglasses
Your style doesn’t stop when you hit the sand. Blitz Surf Shop is your spot for the latest surf and skate fashion, stocking iconic brands like Quiksilver, Roxy, and RVCA. We carry a wide selection of clothing for men, women, and kids.
This makes us a one-stop-shop for your whole wardrobe, from boardshorts and bikinis to casual tees, hoodies, and jackets. We’ve also got you sorted for footwear with Havaianas for post-surf comfort and stylish, protective sunglasses from brands like Oakley to shield your eyes from that harsh NZ sun.
The surf apparel market in New Zealand is huge, which is no surprise given how much Kiwis love the coast. Gisborne's surf shops are right at the heart of this. While clothing makes up a massive 85.81% share, it's the accessories—the wetsuits, boardbags, and grips we stock—that are the fastest-growing part of the market, as research from grandviewresearch.com points out.
Whether you're hitting the waves or the pavement, this little flowchart can help you figure out what ride is right for you.
It’s a simple way to see your main options, guiding you towards the perfect board whether you’re heading for the water or the concrete.
Hire Gear & Expert Advice to Get You Started
Don't have the right gear? Or maybe you just want to try something different? No worries, we've got you covered. Here at Blitz, we believe everyone should have a crack at the epic adventures Gisborne has on offer.
Our hire service is the perfect launchpad, providing top-quality surf, bodyboard, and wetsuit hire for the beach, as well as durable tyre tube hire for the legendary Rere Rockslide. We make it dead easy to get kitted out for any adventure.
Gisborne Surfboard, Bodyboard & Wetsuit Hire
There’s nothing worse than rocking up to the beach on a perfect day only to realise you’re missing a board. Our hire service is the simple solution. We've got a solid range of gear to suit the day's conditions and whatever your skill level is.
Here’s what you can grab from us:
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Surfboard Hire: From stable soft-tops that are perfect for anyone just starting out, to more progressive shapes for intermediate surfers looking to step up their game. We'll help you pick a board that matches the waves and your ability.
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Bodyboard Hire: If you're after some instant fun in the surf, a bodyboard is a fantastic choice. They're great for all ages and an awesome way to make the most of the shorebreak.
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Wetsuit Hire: Stay warm and get more time in the water with one of our quality hire wetsuits. We’ve got sizes for men, women, and kids, making sure the whole family is comfortable, no matter the season.
Planning your trip is easy. You can learn more about our simple and affordable options in our comprehensive surfboard hire guide. It's always a good idea to book ahead, especially during the busy summer months, to make sure you get the gear you're after.
Conquer the Rere Rockslide with Tyre Tube and Bodyboard Hire
Beyond the surf, Gisborne is home to one of New Zealand’s most thrilling natural attractions—the Rere Rockslide. This 60-metre-long natural water slide is a must-do, and we’ve got the essential gear to make it happen safely.
We are the original and best spot for tyre tube and bodyboard hire specifically for the rockslide. Sliding down on a durable tube or going faster on a bodyboard are hands-down the best and most exhilarating ways to experience it. Just like our surf gear, we highly recommend calling ahead to book your tubes during peak season to avoid missing out.
Our mission is pretty simple: make adventure accessible. Whether it's your first wave or your tenth run down the Rere Rockslide, we'll sort you out with quality gear and friendly advice so you can get out there and make some good memories.
More Than Just a Hire Shop
We’re not just here to rent you gear. We've built up a bunch of services designed to help you make the most of your time in Gisborne, cementing our place as the best surf shop Gisborne has to offer.
Since 1983, Blitz has grown from a local shop on Wainui Road into a real hub for the surf community, both in-store and online. This approach seems to be what Kiwis are after; a 2026 eCommerce report by NZ Post noted that two-thirds of shoppers now browse online before heading to a physical store. We’ve leaned into this, blending our physical and digital worlds to serve surfers better, wherever they are. You can read more about how Blitz has ridden the digital wave at nzbusiness.co.nz.
Here are a few other things that make us a true partner in your adventure:
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Live Wainui Beach Surf Cam: Before you even leave the house, you can check the waves in real-time on our website. Our live surf cam gives you a crystal-clear view of the conditions at Wainui, so you can decide when and where to paddle out. It points directly at the No Access surf spot between Stockroute and Schools towards the South end of Wainui Beach.
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Nationwide Shipping: Can't make it to the Gisborne shop? No problem. Our online store is open 24/7, and we offer nationwide shipping. You can get the best surf and skate gear delivered right to your door.
An Insider's Guide to Gisborne's Best Surf Spots
So you're keen to find the best waves in Gisborne? You've come to the right place. This part of the country is legendary for its consistency and the sheer variety of breaks on offer. But to really score, you need more than a standard surf forecast—you need proper local knowledge. As Gisborne’s original surf shop, we’re here to give you the rundown on where to go and when.
The heart and soul of Gizzy surfing has to be the world-renowned Wainui Beach. It’s an incredible stretch of coast that dishes up different peaks depending on the tide, swell, and wind. The best part? From our shop, you're just a quick drive from paddling out at one of these classic spots.
Wainui Beach The Main Event
Wainui isn't just one spot; it's a whole menu of beach breaks, and each has its own personality. Knowing which one is firing based on the day's conditions is the key to a memorable session.
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The Stock Route: This spot is a local favourite, known for its powerful, often hollow waves. It really turns on with a clean easterly swell and works best from mid to high tide. A go-to for the local chargers.
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Pines: Is a conundrum. It can often hold the biggest, cleanest easterly swells that hit Wainui Beach. But can also be heavily tide effected at other times with sometimes sucky shorebreak surf and sometimes fat mush burgers. This is a great place to watch the experts surf when it is pumping
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Chalet: Tucked away at the northern end of the beach, Chalet is another quality peak that can produce some surprisingly fast, sucky barrels on the right day and can hold big surf form the south or SE. The banks here can get really good, but it is quite fickle, but it's a solid choice when other spots are a bit crowded and there's some runners here.
Gisborne’s coastline is a gift that just keeps on giving. But it's understanding the little things—the right tide for a certain bank, the perfect swell direction—that turns a good day into an unforgettable one. Our team is in the water here every day, so we’re always happy to share what's working.
Beyond the Main Beach
While Wainui gets a lot of the limelight, the Gisborne region is absolutely stacked with other breaks. A short drive up the East Cape can reward you with uncrowded waves, point breaks, and hidden gems that offer a real sense of adventure. If you're keen to dig deeper, you can explore our complete Gisborne surf guide, where we break down even more of our local spots.
While you're out there discovering Gizzy's epic waves, it pays to be smart about your gear. Leaving keys and a wallet on the beach can be a nagging worry. It’s worth looking up some practical advice on how to keep valuables safe at the beach so you can focus completely on the surf.
Whether you're a seasoned pro hunting for hollow barrels or a beginner looking for that first green wave, the perfect spot is waiting for you here in Gisborne. At Blitz, we're more than just the surf shop Gisborne locals rely on; we're your connection to the waves. Pop in for a chat, check our live surf cam, and let us point you toward the session of a lifetime.
So there you have it. That's our wrap on why Blitz is the first and last stop for any surf or skate mission in Gisborne. We've walked you through our massive range of gear, expert advice, hire services, and insider knowledge on local breaks. When you think of a surf shop Gisborne locals actually use, you think of Blitz.
Our philosophy is simple. We're here to sort you out with quality equipment, give you genuine local advice, and make you feel part of the community. We're passionate about helping you find that perfect board, the warmest wetsuit, or the right skate setup for your style.
Your Go-To Hub for Everything Surf and Skate
Whether you're after a new Firewire surfboard, a pair of O'Neill boots, or even some stylish Ethika underwear, we've got you covered. The shop is packed with everything you'll need, including:
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Surf Gear: Boards, wetsuits, fins, leashes, and wax.
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Skate Gear: Complete skateboards, Carver surfskates, decks, and protective gear.
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Apparel & Accessories: Clothing, footwear, and sunglasses from all the top brands.
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Hire Services: Surfboards, bodyboards, wetsuits, and even tyre tubes for the Rere Rockslide.
We reckon the right gear is what makes for the best sessions. That's why we don't just shift products; we offer proper solutions to help you make the most of every moment on the water or the pavement.
Flick us a visit in-store at 34 Wainui Road to have a yarn with the team and get some one-on-one advice. Before you head out for a wave, don't forget to check the live Wainui Beach surf cam on our site to see what the surf's actually doing in real-time.
You can also cruise our full range in our online store or hit us up on social media to stay in the loop with new stock and local surf reports. Your unforgettable East Coast experience starts right here with us at Blitz Surf Shop.
Your Questions About Our Gisborne Surf Shop Answered
Still got a few questions before you swing by the shop or grab some new gear? No worries. We've pulled together the answers to the queries we hear the most.
Here’s some quick, straight-up info to help you plan your visit, pick the right equipment, and make sure you have an awesome time in Gisborne.
What Are Your Hire Rates and Can I Book Ahead?
We keep our hire rates on quality gear competitive. As a guide, surfboard hire kicks off from just $20 an hour, $30 for half a day or $40 for 24 hours, and you can get a full-length wetsuit from $15, or free with surfboard hire. We’ve also got package deals and multi-day rates if you’re planning on getting in the water a lot.
During the peak summer season (December to February), we definitely recommend booking your gear in advance to avoid missing out. This is especially true for our surf, bodyboard, and wetsuit hire for Wainui, and particularly for our tyre tubes for the Rere Rockslide – those things are popular!
Just give us a bell or pop into the shop to get your equipment sorted.
Do You Sell Second-Hand Surfboards?
We used to sell a lot of second hand surfboards on consignment for people. But now with the advent of Facebook Marketplace and groups like The Surfing Stock Exchnage and Surfers Trading NZ most used boards are now sold through social media. We do carry a range of great price point boards though that don't cost a lot more than a good secondhand board.
Do You Carry Underwear Like Ethika?
We sure do. We’re stoked to be an official stockist for Ethika underwear here in Gisborne. It was born out of the action sports scene, so it's perfect for surfers and skaters who need comfort that actually performs. We stock a full range of their iconic "Staple Fit" boxers for both men and youth.
You'll find a heap of styles in the shop, including:
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Ethika Mens: Featuring classics like the all-black Staple and plenty of bold graphic prints.
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Ethika Youth: Awesome designs for the younger crew, like Bomber Tested and Vitamin Sea.
They're designed for mobility and made from breathable, high-stretch fabrics, making them ideal to wear under your boardshorts. You can browse our Ethika collection online or see the full range in our Gisborne store.
What Are Your Opening Hours and Location?
You'll find Blitz Surf Shop at 34 Wainui Road, Gisborne, right on the main drag out to the city's best surf beaches. There’s plenty of free parking right outside the store, making it easy to drop in.
Our usual hours are:
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Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
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Saturday & Sunday: 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM
These hours can sometimes shift for public holidays, so it's always a good idea to check our Google Business Profile or give us a quick call before you visit, just to be sure. We look forward to seeing you at the shop.
Your next surf or skate adventure starts at Blitz Surf Shop. Visit us online to explore our full range of boards, wetsuits, apparel, and more.
https://blitzsurf.co.nz
