MANGAWHAI SURF FIELD GUIDE
Mangawhai Heads: Rent the Gear, Read the Breaks — Surf, Paddle or Kayak the East Coast
From Aotearoa Surf School's Surf Lodge at Mangawhai Heads you can hire surfboards, wetsuits, kayaks and paddleboards with easy-to-fit soft racks for transport — this guide explains what’s available and how to plan a day on the East Coast waves.
Mangawhai Heads: Rent the Gear, Read the Breaks — Surf, Paddle or Kayak the East Coast.
From a compact surf lodge at Mangawhai Heads you can step straight into an East Coast surf day: a wide range of quality surfboards and full-length wetsuits are available for hire, plus kayaks and paddleboards, with soft racks supplied for easy transport and multi-day discounts available.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A full quiver at the Surf Lodge
The rental stock covers beginners through advanced — soft boards (6–9 ft) for learners, short boards, mini-mals and longboards for more experienced surfers, plus full-length wetsuits in a range of sizes.
Soft racks that make logistics straightforward
Free use of soft racks and tie-downs simplifies getting gear to the shore: the kit is designed to fit any vehicle and can carry up to six surfboards, four paddleboards or two kayaks.
Access to East Coast waves
Based at Mangawhai Heads, the hire lets you prepare and transport equipment locally and head out to catch the region’s East Coast surf — suitable launch options for board, paddle or kayak days.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
A typical day begins at the Surf Lodge on Molesworth Drive where you collect a board and wetsuit, load them onto the supplied soft racks, and drive the short distance to a chosen launch; once on the water, the focus is straightforward — surf the East Coast breaks, paddle or kayak in sheltered or open water according to conditions.
THE GEAR
A full quiver at the Surf Lodge
The rental stock covers beginners through advanced — soft boards (6–9 ft) for learners, short boards, mini-mals and longboards for more experienced surfers, plus full-length wetsuits in a range of sizes.
THE TRANSPORT
Soft racks that make logistics straightforward
Free use of soft racks and tie-downs simplifies getting gear to the shore: the kit is designed to fit any vehicle and can carry up to six surfboards, four paddleboards or two kayaks.
THE BREAKS
Access to East Coast waves
Based at Mangawhai Heads, the hire lets you prepare and transport equipment locally and head out to catch the region’s East Coast surf — suitable launch options for board, paddle or kayak days.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this rental suits — practical matches based on available equipment.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
You will be issued with surfboards and full-length wetsuits in a range of sizes; bring personal swimwear, a towel and any personal safety gear you prefer. Soft racks and tie-downs are provided free for transporting hired equipment.
Different duration options are available and long-term discounted rates can be arranged; headline pricing starts from $15.
Hire is based at the Surf Lodge in Mangawhai Heads (299 Molesworth Drive); soft racks supplied are suitable for any vehicle and designed to carry multiple boards or kayaks.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Where do I pick up hired gear?
Gear is collected from the Surf Lodge in Mangawhai Heads at 299 Molesworth Drive.
What types of surfboards are available?
The lodge hires soft boards for beginners (about 6–9 ft), short boards, mini-mals and longboards for intermediate to advanced surfers.
Are wetsuits provided?
Yes — full-length wetsuits in a range of types and sizes are available for hire.
Can I transport multiple boards in my vehicle?
Yes — free soft racks and tie-downs are provided and are designed to carry up to six surfboards, four paddleboards or two kayaks on most vehicles.
Are there discounted long-term rental rates?
Discounted long-term rates are available; inquire at the Surf Lodge about specific pricing and duration options.
How much does hire cost?
Headline pricing starts from $15, with different duration options available.