Planning a surf trip to Gisborne? You’re in for an unforgettable experience in New Zealand’s surf capital. With consistent, potentially world-class waves, stunning beaches, and a laid-back vibe, Gisborne offers everything you need for the ultimate surf getaway. To help you make the most of your trip, here’s a local’s checklist of essential items to pack for a surf trip to Gisborne. If you don't have any of these items we can provide them for you at Blitz Surf Shop
1. A Great Attitude and Good Surf Etiquette
Before we get into the gear, the most important thing to bring is a positive attitude and good surf etiquette. This way you will be welcome in the line up and have a great surfing experience.
Respect the locals, share the waves, and always prioritize safety in the water. Being courteous will go a long way toward ensuring an enjoyable surf session for everyone.
Read our Gisborne Surf Guide to find out about correct surf etiquette and the surf breaks in Gisborne.
2. Your Surfboard (or Surfboards)
Gisborne’s diverse surf spots mean conditions can vary, so packing more than one surfboard is a smart move. Bring a smaller shortboard for punchy waves and a longer board, midlength or fish for smaller, mellow days. Don’t forget a quality surfboard leash to keep your board secure in the surf.
Wanting to buy a brand new surfboard while you are in Gizzy? Check out our range of shortboards, mid-lengths, longboards, softboards and Sups for sale or our discounted surfboard specials.
If you need a different surfboard while you are in Gisborne, Blitz Surf Shop has a range of hire boards you can check out.
3. A Wetsuit for the Season
Gisborne’s water temperatures change throughout the year, so pack a wetsuit suited to the season. Even though we get some pretty amazing weather, the water is often not as warm as places further north:
-
Winter (June-September): A 4/3mm wetsuit for most people is pretty essential to keep you warm as the water drops to somewhere between 11-13 degrees celcius. Check out men's steamers, women's steamers and children's steamers.
-
Summer (December-February): A 2mm wetsuit or springsuit is usually sufficient. On hot days with warm currents or if you are really hearty you can get to surf in your boardshorts or bikini.
-
Late Spring and Early Autumn (October-November & March-May): A 3/2mm wetsuit works well for these transitional months. Some people will choose to wear a 3/2mm wetsuit throughout the summer
For added warmth in winter, consider bringing wetsuit accessories like booties, gloves, and a hood. If you're paddling out at heaving Wainui Beach on a frosty winter's day with strong offshore winds, taking heaps of waves on the head, the ice-cream headaches can be horrendous
We also have wetsuits for hire at Blitz Surf Shop if you get caught short
4. Sun Protection
The Gisborne sun can be harsh, especially in summer. Pack sun protection to keep yourself safe:
-
Zinc or reef-safe sunscreen
-
A wide-brimmed sun hat or surf hat for summer sessions
-
Sunglasses for off-the-water relaxation
5. Surfboard Wax
Grip is everything. Make sure to bring the right surfboard wax for Gisborne’s seasonal water temperatures:
-
Cool or warm water wax for the warmer months
-
Cool or cold water wax for the colder months
If you want to support local New Zealand gear then buy Sticky Johnson surf wax
6. A Quality Surfboard Bag
Whether you’re flying in or just driving around town, a good surfboard bag will protect your gear from damage. If you’re traveling with multiple boards, invest in a durable travel boardbag.
Read our handy blog about mutli surfboard travel bags here
7. Keylock for Your Car
To keep your belongings safe while you’re in the water, a keylock is becoming a must. Secure your car key in a lockbox attached to your vehicle, so you can surf worry-free. Gisborne is a pretty safe place and local surfers will be watching out for problems but car theft and theft form caars has increased in recent years. This is especially important if you will be surfing in a spot that has less public movement like Sponge Bay or more isolated surf spots.
8. Warm Clothing for Winter
Even if the sun is shining, Gisborne’s winters can be chilly. Pack warm clothing like jackets, hoodies, and beanies for after-surf comfort.
9. A Skateboard or Surfskate
When the waves aren’t firing, Gisborne’s skatepark and pump track are excellent alternatives. A skateboard or surfskate will keep you entertained and help you refine your surf-style turns on land. Our skatepark is excellent and was only completed a couple of years ago. Both the Gisborne skatepark and Gisborne Pumptrack are on Grey Street near the I-Site heading towards Waikanae Beach from town
10. Support Local: Branded Clothing and Unique Finds
No surf trip is complete without picking up some local gear to remember your adventure. While in Gisborne, check out:
-
Wai-Tai Aotearoa: Maori-inspired clothing that celebrates the culture of Aotearoa and our love of the Moana.
-
Gizzy Hard: Exclusive to Blitz Surf Shop, this brand offers unique, locally designed clothing that’s perfect for representing Gizzy.
Get Geared Up at Blitz Surf Shop
Forgot something? No worries! Blitz Surf Shop has everything you need for your Gisborne surf trip, including surfboard hire, wetsuits, boardbags, wax, and more. Swing by our shop for local knowledge on daily conditions, tips on the best surf spots, and a friendly chat. We’re located right here in Gisborne and ready to help you make your surf trip unforgettable.
With this checklist in hand, you’re all set for an epic surf adventure in Gisborne. See you in the waves!
