TE ARAI WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
East Coast Rides: Renting Surfboards, Wetsuits, Kayaks and Paddleboards at Te Arai
A practical guide to hiring quality boards, full-length wetsuits and vehicle soft racks from Aotearoa Surf School at Te Arai — everything you need to hit the East Coast waves.
East Coast Rides: Renting Surfboards, Wetsuits, Kayaks and Paddleboards at Te Arai.
Te Arai sits on Auckland’s East Coast, where shifting beach breaks produce days of surf that reward preparation and the right kit. At Aotearoa Surf School’s Te Arai base you can hire a wide range of surfboards and full-length wetsuits, plus paddleboards and kayaks, and get local advice on where to go for the best conditions.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Boards and Wetsuits for Every Skill Level
The rental fleet includes soft boards (6–9ft) for beginners, shortboards, mini-mals and longboards for intermediate to advanced surfers, alongside full-length wetsuits in a range of sizes so you can match equipment to sea temperature and ability.
Practical Directions to the Best Breaks
Beyond kit hire, the operator provides directions and practical hints on the best surf spots in the area, tailored to your level, the tides and daily conditions to help you get the most out of a session.
Complimentary Soft Racks and Tie-Downs
Free use of soft racks and tie downs makes transporting equipment straightforward; the system is suitable for any vehicle and designed to carry up to six surfboards, four paddleboards or two kayaks.
What the day feels like
What It Feels Like to Hire Here
You arrive at the Te Arai base, choose a board and a full-length wetsuit suited to the day’s conditions, mount the provided soft racks to your vehicle if you need transport, then head to whatever break the operator has recommended — from a gentle learner-friendly soft board session to longer rides on a longboard when conditions allow.
GEAR RANGE
Boards and Wetsuits for Every Skill Level
The rental fleet includes soft boards (6–9ft) for beginners, shortboards, mini-mals and longboards for intermediate to advanced surfers, alongside full-length wetsuits in a range of sizes so you can match equipment to sea temperature and ability.
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
Practical Directions to the Best Breaks
Beyond kit hire, the operator provides directions and practical hints on the best surf spots in the area, tailored to your level, the tides and daily conditions to help you get the most out of a session.
TRANSPORT MADE SIMPLE
Complimentary Soft Racks and Tie-Downs
Free use of soft racks and tie downs makes transporting equipment straightforward; the system is suitable for any vehicle and designed to carry up to six surfboards, four paddleboards or two kayaks.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this hire setup suits best — and who should check details before booking.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring swimwear, a towel and any personal accessories; full-length wetsuits are provided in a range of sizes. If you have specific board preferences, note them in your booking; otherwise the operator will select gear for the day.
Different duration options are available and rates start from $15; discounted long-term rates are also offered.
Soft racks and tie-downs are provided free for use with your vehicle; the system is suitable for any vehicle and designed to carry six surfboards, four paddleboards or two kayaks.
Meeting locations are listed as Te Arai and Mangawhai — confirm your pickup point when booking.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What gear is available to hire?
A wide range of surfboards (soft boards 6–9ft, shortboards, mini-mals, longboards), paddleboards, kayaks and full-length wetsuits in various sizes are available for hire.
Do you provide racks to transport boards?
Yes — free use of soft racks and tie-downs is provided; they fit most vehicles and are designed to carry up to six surfboards, four paddleboards or two kayaks.
Where do I meet to pick up equipment?
Meeting locations are Te Arai and Mangawhai; confirm your chosen meeting point when you book.
Can I request a specific board or wetsuit size?
Yes — if you know what you want, note it in your booking. If not, the operator will set you up with the appropriate gear for your level and the day’s conditions.
Are there discounts for longer hires?
Discounted long-term rates are available.
Will I get advice on where to surf?
Yes — the operator gives directions and hints on the best local surf spots depending on skill level, conditions and tides.