Oreti Beach kitesurf, wingfoil and windsurf spot

Oreti Beach is one of the most iconic kitesurfing spots in the far south of New Zealand. Located on the Foveaux Strait coast in Southland, this immense sandy beach stretches for 26 kilometres between the town of Riverton and the Oreti River estuary. The city of Invercargill is only ten kilometres to the east. It is a legendary location for wind sports, benefiting from the powerful Roaring Forties winds that blow regularly from the west and southwest. Wind conditions at Oreti Beach are often extreme, with winds frequently exceeding 30 knots. Kitesurfers regularly use kites smaller than 7 square metres. The prevailing wind is rather onshore (from sea to land), which distinguishes this spot from neighbouring Colac Bay which offers more cross-shore conditions. Waves can be considerable, fed by the Foveaux Strait and Southern Ocean swell. The water is surprisingly warmer than around Dunedin, but a full wetsuit remains essential all year round. Oreti Beach is reserved for experienced kitesurfers capable of handling strong winds and powerful waves. The beach is also popular for landkiting thanks to its immense expanse of hard sand. The spot is accessible all year round, but the best conditions are found in spring and austral summer (September to February). It is a must-visit for any kitesurfer visiting the south of New Zealand, offering a raw and wild sailing experience in a spectacular natural setting.