What to Bring to Your First Surf Lesson at Piha

Kia ora! You've booked your first surf lesson at Piha (or you're about to), and now the big question: what do you actually need to bring? Good news, it's not much. Here's the no-fuss packing list from the team at Piha Surf Academy, plus a few local tips that make a first surf on the West Coast a whole lot more comfortable.

What do I need to bring to my first surf lesson?

Keep it simple. Pack a bag with:

• Togs: a swimsuit, bikini or boardshorts to wear under your wetsuit.

• A towel: the bigger the better. A changing towel or poncho makes getting changed in the carpark much easier.

• Sunscreen: water-resistant, plus a hat and sunnies for the beach.

• A water bottle: you'll be thirsty after two hours in the surf.

• A snack: a muesli bar, banana or sandwich for straight after.

• Warm layers: a hoodie, trackies and a beanie for when you get out.

• Jandals: for walking across the sand and carpark.

• A plastic bag: for your wet togs on the way home.

That's it. Everything else, we've got covered.

Do I need my own surfboard or wetsuit?

Nope. Your surfboard and wetsuit are included with every Piha Surf Academy lesson, so you don't need any gear of your own. Beginners learn on big, stable boards that are much easier to paddle and stand up on, and we'll sort you a wetsuit in your size. If you already own a wetsuit you love, you're welcome to wear it.

What should I wear under my wetsuit?

Your togs. The easiest move is to wear them to the beach under your clothes, so all you have to do is step into your wetsuit. Leave jewellery, watches and anything else you'd hate to lose at home or locked away out of sight. If you've got long hair, bring a hair tie. Never worn a wetsuit before? Don't stress, just ask your instructor for a hand.

Do I really need sunscreen at Piha?

Yes, every time. The New Zealand sun is strong, and the reflection off the water makes it even stronger, even on a cloudy day. Slap on a water-resistant sunscreen before you suit up: face, ears, neck, and the backs of your hands and feet, since they're the bits your wetsuit doesn't cover. Bring it along to top up afterwards, and pop on a hat and sunnies once you're back on the sand.

Should I eat before a surf lesson?

Have a light meal an hour or two before your lesson, so you've got energy without feeling heavy. Surfing is a full-body workout: you'll be paddling, popping up, falling off and walking back out through the white water, again and again. Drink some water before you arrive, and keep your water bottle and a snack in the car for afterwards. You'll be starving, trust us.

What should I bring for after the lesson?

This is the bit people forget. Piha is on Auckland's wild West Coast, and the breeze can feel cool when you peel off a wet wetsuit, even in summer. A warm hoodie, trackies and a beanie feel amazing after a surf. Jandals are a must too: Piha's famous black sand can get seriously hot on a sunny summer day. And a plastic bag or dry bag keeps your wet togs and towel away from the car seats.

Where do I meet my instructor, and when should I arrive?

Meet us at the blue surf trailer in the South Piha Beach carpark, 23 Marine Parade South, Piha. Piha is about 45 minutes' drive west of Auckland, and the road over the hills is winding, so give yourself plenty of time. Aim to arrive a little early so you can park, grab your gear and get changed without rushing. All Piha Surf Academy lessons are by booking only (no walk-ups), so make sure you've booked your spot before you head out.

What happens once I'm suited up?

Your lesson runs for 2 hours. It starts on the sand with a safety briefing covering ocean awareness, rips and beach safety, plus some pop-up practice, before you head into the white water with your instructor. For a feel of how the lesson flows, have a read of what to expect of your first surf lesson. And if you're wondering about rips, flags and conditions, our local guide Is Piha Safe for Beginner Surfers? has you covered.

Which lesson should I book for my first surf?

• Group surf lesson: $80 per person at 11am, ages 10+, with up to 6 surfers per instructor. A fun way to learn with others.

• Private one-on-one lesson: $139. Your instructor's full attention, ideal if you're nervous or want to progress faster.

• Private group lesson: $120 per person, for your own crew of friends or family (minimum 2) with your own instructor.

• Group lesson 5-pack: from $68 per lesson, if you want to keep the momentum going.

• Board and wetsuit hire: $45, for when you're ready to head out on your own (on a small day, with a mate).

See all the details on our surf lessons page, or check out our guide to surf lessons near Auckland at Piha Beach.

Ready to give it a go?

Pack your togs, towel, sunscreen, water, a snack and something warm, and leave the rest to us. Book your lesson online or flick us a message on WhatsApp at 021 661 082. See you in the water! 🤙