Hickory Bay Reviews and Ratings

(1 star: Even when the swell and winds are optimum, the waves are poor quality, 5 stars: If conditions are right, the waves will be World Class).

(1: Hickory Bay is a fickle surf spot that only works a few times a year. 5: Reliable year-round spot).

(1: Hickory Bay is usually very poor quality compared to other spots in New-Zealand - Banks Peninsular. 5: the best break in New-Zealand - Banks Peninsular).

(1: Suitable for Groms. 3: Intermediates. 5: Expert tow-in surfers only).

(1: even a light onshore ruins the surf. 5: Hickory Bay can offer better rides with a light wind behind them).

(1: If wind or tide conditions are poor at Hickory Bay, it will be poor everywhere nearby. 5: other locations nearby provide a rich variety of wind and swell exposures).

(1: An unsuitable spot. 5: Wind and wave conditions at Hickory Bay are often excellent).

(1: Known health risks from pollution. 5: Never any pollution).

(1: Often too crowded. 5: Hickory Bay is an isolated spot where you are unlikely to meet other surfers).

(1: Getting to Hickory Bay requires an overland expedition or chartering a boat. 3: A 30 minute walk from the nearest parking. 5: Park a vehicle right by the break).

(1: An ugly industrial backdrop. 5: A spectacular setting).

(1: Locals are hostile to visitors. 5: Either there are no locals who surf, or else they are accommodating and friendly).

(1: No convenient places to stay indoors. 5: A wide variety of accommodation near Hickory Bay for all budgets from hostels to luxury hotels).

(1: Camping at Hickory Bay is not possible. 3: Camping tolerated but no facilities. 5: A nearby camp ground has excellent facilities and a good vibe).

(1: Besides the surf and the solitude there is nothing to do when it is flat. 5: Hickory Bay is in such an interesting area to visit that getting wet is a bonus).

(1: Nothing can be sourced, not even wax. 5: Quality surfing equipment can be purchased or hired. Major repairs can be fixed too).

(1: Bring your own food, there isn't even a shop. 5: A wide variety of places to eat and drink at Hickory Bay, from fast food and cafes to fancy restaurants).

(1: Alcohol is not allowed in the country. 5: There is an excellent pub near Hickory Bay where you can stay or park a camper van overnight).