Mangamanu - surf spot statistics

Mangamanu in New Zealand offers surfable conditions year-round, with seasonal variations in swell quality and wind patterns. The best months for surfing are typically from March to August, when ground swells dominate (51% to 59%) and mean swell sizes range from 1.5m to 1.7m. During this period, ground swell consistency peaks, particularly in May (59%) with June and July delivering the largest waves (1.7m). Wind conditions improve slightly in the autumn and winter months (May to July), with good wind days averaging 34%, still outnumbered by poor winds but less severe than summer. The summer months (December to February) see a higher proportion of wind swells (58% to 69%) and smaller waves (1.2m to 1.4m), paired with the worst wind conditions (72% to 73% unfavorable). September marks a transition, with ground swells dropping below 50% but still offering decent wave heights (1.5m). While surfable, the shoulder seasons (September to November and late summer) present more mixed conditions, with weaker ground swells and persistent onshore winds. For the most consistent and powerful waves, target the mid-autumn to mid-winter window when ground swells are strongest and winds are marginally less disruptive.

January at Mangamanu offers decent surf conditions with an average swell height of 1.3m and a solid period of 9.6s, producing well-organized waves. The swell is primarily dominated by southerly directions (S, SSE, SE), contributing the largest share of rideable waves, particularly in the 1-2.5m range, with S swells delivering the most powerful sets (peaking at 10.06% for 1-1.5m). ENE and E swells also provide consistent energy, though smaller in size. Wind conditions are a mixed bag—only 28% of the time are they ideal (light offshore or sideshore), with the worst winds coming from northerly quadrants (N, NNE, NE), bringing choppy onshore flow at moderate to strong speeds. SSW and SW winds, while less frequent, can be problematic when strong (20-50kph). Overall, expect a mix of clean and messy days, with the best sessions occurring when southerly swells align with lighter ESE or E winds. Mid-sized days (1.5-2m) with S/SSE swell and favorable winds will offer the highest quality rides.