Whangamata Bar
Location: Whangamata, Coromandel
Referred to as the “Jewel of the Pacific” by surfing legend Gerry Lopez, Whangamata Bar is arguably New Zealand’s most controversial surf break. “The Bar” lies at the entrance to Whangamata Harbour, Coromandel Peninsula, where waves peel off the ebb tidal delta sand body. In 2009 a marina was opened just inside the harbour entrance. Much debate has ensued as to whether construction of the marina and ongoing maintenance dredging of the marina access channel effects the surfing wave quality of the The Bar.
The Bar is capable of producing lefts and rights from the peak, however, it is traditionally recognised for its long, walled up and almond-shaped left handers.
Photo taken by Jwan Millek
