Hickory Bay

Hickory Bay is a remote surf spot on the northeast coast of New Zealand’s South Island. It’s known for being scenic, secluded, and often exposed to open-ocean swell, which can make it a rewarding but less forgiving place to surf.

Surf character

• Break type: Typically a beach break and/or mixed sand-and-rock setup depending on the exact section of the bay and swell direction.
• Wave quality: Can offer fun, punchy waves when conditions line up, but it’s generally more exposed and inconsistent than sheltered mainland east-coast spots.
• Best swells: Usually works best with east to northeast swell bringing enough size and clean shape into the bay.
• Wind: Light offshore to light variable winds are ideal; strong onshore winds can quickly make it messy.

Spot feel

• Crowds: Usually quiet or uncrowded due to its remote location.
• Setting: A rugged coastal environment with a wild, natural feel—more of an adventure surf than a casual city session.
• Access: Can be less convenient to reach, so it’s often surfed by those willing to make the trip.

Things to watch out for

• Rips and currents can be strong, especially with size.
• Changing sandbars may affect where the waves break.
• Depending on the exact section, there may be rocky areas or uneven entry/exit conditions.

Best for

• Surfers looking for a quiet, scenic session
• Those comfortable with variable conditions
• Intermediate to advanced surfers when the swell is up