Oakura Overview

A tiny town (pop. 1300) whose claim to fame stems from its wide, flat, and often family-filled beach, on which was set the world record for the largest number of people surfing the same long board. Oakura is representative of the populated pockets that dot the coast along “The Surf Highway.” The town itself provides little diversion for those looking for something other than waves and rays. People pitch tents down by the beach in the summer, but Oakura Beach Holiday Park 1, 2 Jans Terr., offers oceanside tracts. (☎752 7861; oakurabeachcamp@internet.co.nz. Linen $5. Powered tent sites $14. 2-person cabins $50, with bath $75.) The Oakura Boardriders Club provides free toilets, showers, and changing rooms just off the beach, near the corner of Wairau Rd. and Tasman Pde. Three kilometers west of town on SH45 is the Wavehaven Hostel 1. Despite the more than 3km walk to the surf at Ahu Ahu, this chill spot is popular among surfers, who often leave the rooms sand-filled and slightly gritty. Perks include free kayak use, surfing lessons for novices, and Internet. (☎752 7800; www.wavehaven.co.nz. Dorms $18, one week $100; singles $30; doubles $40. 2hr. surfing lessons $60, $50 for 2 people.) Those not staying at the hostel can rent a board in town at Vertigo Total Surf, next to the 2-story surf board. (☎752 7363. Surfboards with wetsuit $50 per day.) A few doors down, Butler’s Bar and Cafe 2, 1122 SH45, offers pub grub, pizzas ($14-21), and $5 pints. (☎752 7765. Open M-Th noon-late, F-Su 11:30am-late.)