Napier - Hardings Road Surf Forecast and Surf Report

G’day, it’s Rusty here. Let’s be straight with you – the next couple of weeks at Napier’s Hardings Road are going to test your patience. This spot is sheltered from the east, and that’s exactly the direction most of this swell is coming from, so the combo isn't doing us any favours. We’re looking at a long, flat stretch before anything even thinks about showing its face.

To start, the water is sitting at 53°, which is a bit colder than normal for this time of year, so you’ll want the thickest rubber you’ve got. The first week is basically a write-off. From Monday the 10th through to the 23rd, the surf is consistently poor, with most days showing nothing rideable. We get a little blip of energy on Friday the 14th with a 4ft east swell, but it’s onshore, rainy, and messy – not worth the drive. The wind stays messy or offshore but with no swell to push it, it’s just a lake out there. The energy readings are weak, mostly single digits, and the swell periods are short and jumbled.

Now, if you’re still keen, the second week shows a few promising glimmers but they’re a long way off and less certain. The first real sign of life comes on Monday the 24th. It’s still tiny, 2ft from the east with a 12-second period, and the wind is glassy in the morning. The energy is still weak at 99, but it’s the first clean, surfable wave we’ve seen. Mark it as a maybe.

The standout, though, is Tuesday the 25th afternoon. This is the one. The swell jumps to a solid 10ft from the east, with a 12-second period – proper groundswell, and the combined energy is strong, hitting 2213. The wind is moderate offshore from the SSW, which should groom it nicely. This is big, powerful surf, so it’s strictly for experienced crew – this is well over 8ft, so beginners need to stay well clear. The direction is right for the point, but with that size and period, it could be a handful. This is the one to circle on the calendar, though remember it’s over a week out, so keep your expectations in check. Before that, there are a couple of clean days with an offshore breeze on the 18th and 25th morning, but the swell is too small to do anything with.

Honestly, for most of this window, you’d be better off checking the forecast for a change or doing maintenance on your board. The setup looks more interesting for kitesurfing on the windy, choppy days than for paddle surfing. Hang tight, and let’s see if that Tuesday delivers.

Rusty.

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