I celebrated New Years Eve in a slightly different way this year, but I think no one would be surprised to hear that I spent it on a windy beach! The predictions were awesome and I spent 4 days surfing the Auckland west coast in winds of 15 to 25 knots, mainly at Muriwai.

Muriwai is well known as a slightly wild spot, and I think the locals take a pride in that face.



There's 4WD access to the beach and just before you enter, you're reminded that sharks aren't the only thing you need to worry about!!




Nice.

Well, it was onto the beach and I don't think I ever saw more than 5 other kiters at a time on a beach which stretches for 50 km or so. The one problem is the black sand which, whilst amusing at first, is either dry and scaldingly hot or wet and sticks to everything like mud. Oh well, at least I'm spending most of my time in the water.

This is the main beach



Not especially crowded as you can see!

On Monday 2nd, the wind came in at 25 knots and brought a 6-8 foot swell with it! It was awesome, I think I can call it one of the best sessions I've ever had. There were a couple of people there with cameras but so far, I haven't been able to find any photos. :o(


Sunday was also good, I drove to the far end of Muriwai to a spot called Kaipara. It's a harbour mouth but has the flattest water I've ever kited on. Great fun.




Whilst there I finally found another kiter in a 4WD and had to tow him out of some deep sand. The beach is a little scary to drive on as you regularly hit quicksand and there are plenty of 4WD wrecks lying around to remind you that you can get into trouble very easily.

It's all worth it though, and now I'm back at work. Sore, tired, sunburnt but very, very happy  :o)