Box of Light is made possible thanks to these visionaries:
I could quite easily live in Taranaki. I like the vibe of the place and a coastline that at first glance seems simple and lucrative for surfers, but is really a rubix cube full of discovery. If you can start unlocking secrets here then it takes on a whole new level of beauty and charm.
We're here for the nationals and caught the tail end of a proper impressive swell along the coast. Unfortunately for the nationals the forecast is dire. But even with a terrible swell forecast, the Naki, as it's affectionately known, has the ability to throw up some really fun waves. The beach breaks are not the main attraction here, but they could be.
The pre-nationals energy is always a buzz. It's the first time most surfers in New Zealand have got together since the previous season ended back at the start of winter. The freesurf sessions are incredible – each year the standard seems to be higher, the depth of talent broadens and the occasion intensifies. In the Naki, the locals are so welcoming that it feels like their hospitality and willingness to share their waves is from another era. I love that. They show respect and earn respect. Cross the line and you'll know about it.
I also love that every wave you take is set to a backdrop of Egmont National Park and the formiddable shape of Mount Taranaki. It's a beautiful maunga that created a coastline I could happily explore for a lifetime.
See you at the beach ... Derek
PS We're on the road for a few more days yet so orders are a bit slower to despatch, but you can still buy books from us ... here's the full collection.
Box of Light is made possible thanks to these visionaries: