Hotels in Raglan

Raglan: Surf Town on the Waikato West Coast

Raglan sits on New Zealand's west coast, 48 km west of Hamilton in the Waikato region. The town faces Whaingaroa Harbour and backs onto a series of left-hand surf breaks that draw wave riders from across the southern hemisphere. Manu Bay holds one of the longest left-hand point breaks on earth — a ride can carry a surfer 400 metres on a good swell. Whale Bay and Indicators complete a trio of breaks within 2 km of the town centre.

Where to Stay and Getting Around

Accommodation ranges from backpacker lodges on Wainui Road to self-contained cottages above the harbour. Most hotels and guesthouses sit within walking distance of the main street, where cafés, a Saturday market, and local galleries occupy a few compact blocks. Visitors without a car hire vehicles in Hamilton and drive the 45-minute route via State Highway 23.

Practical Tips

• Best surf season: April to October brings consistent swells from Southern Ocean low-pressure systems.
• Water temperature: 14–18 °C year-round; a 3/2 mm wetsuit suits most months.
• Surf schools: Several operators on Ngarunui Beach offer lessons for beginners on the safer beach break, separate from the point breaks.
• Auckland connection: Hamilton is 1.5 hours south of Auckland by road, making Raglan a feasible long weekend from the city.