Why do kitesurfing lessons?
There is a huge amount to learn in kitesurfing. Doing the lessons means you will learn the correct techniques faster and safer so you spend less time crashing or scaring yourself (and the others!) and more time kitesurfing! Also, you need a good base in terms of security and wind understanding so you can avoid dangerous situations and rescue yourself if a problem occurs. To get the best start, we recommend a "beginner package" of 3 lessons which cover the basic theory and practice.
Why learn with OceanXtreme?
OceanXtreme is the most experienced kitesurfing school in New Zealand, doing lessons since the start of kitesurfing in 2001. Our learning techniques and professionalism is well proven, with thousands of happy customers. Our unique and private teaching spot in the Manukau harbour is a beginner's heaven, making you progress faster. Our gear is the most up to date and well cared after. With us we believe you will also have the most enjoyable time and best value for money while learning the most.
Is kitesurfing accessible to anyone?
Yes! The gear is light and easy to set up and the harness is taking all the kite pressure from your arms, so you don't need to be strong! Kitesurfing is more about skill than strength.
How can I offer a lesson to someone for a present?
Just contact us and we will send you or that person a VOUCHER for one or more lessons (post or email). We can write the text you wishon that voucher, making it a really personal and original present!
Individual or group lessons...What is the best for me?
We firmly believe that group lessons are the best to start with. First of all because they are really cost effective (from as low as $21 per hour!) and secondly because the main thing you need when starting is time flying the kite and practice, which there is no substitute for. Our groups are kept small (limited number per instructor) to allow enough personal coaching and each student is flying their own kite for the length of the lesson (no waiting!). We also offer individual lessons for those people who think they need the extra care. Beware of some kitesurfing instructors out there who are saying that individual lessons are the best only because they lack the equipment and resources for group lessons.
What do I need for a kitesurfing lesson?
We provide all the gear needed for the lesson: wetsuits, booties and kite gear. You will be able to try different kites and boards, sizes and shapes. You are more than welcome to bring your own gear if you had some. Just like when going to the beach, we recommend taking a hat, sun cream, sunglasses, towel, snacks and a drink.
What to be careful of when choosing who to do lessons with?
Beware, as there are more and more people trying to teach out of the back of their car. Some of them have no training or experience and their lessons can be incomplete and dangerous, while others will fool you with confidence by doing a lot of the kitesurfing for you and actually not teaching you how to do it for yourself, just to be able to sell you some gear. Learning with a reputable, experienced and independent kiteschool is your best bet for some great teaching.
What is the frequency and duration of your lessons?
Kitesurfing lessons go for a minimum of 4 hours (half a day). Generally we will go out 2 or 3 days during the week and both days during the weekend. We are open all year.
Do you do 1 or 2 hour lessons as well?
By the time you have set up your gear, been told what you need to do, have the finer points explained, got out in the water and started to practice: 2 hours will have passed by and it will be time to pack up! What you really need in kitesurfing is time to practice and there is no way around this. This is why we provide only 4 hour beginner lessons, so you won’t waste your time!
Which level do I need to attend an advanced lesson?
You need to be able to kitesurf both ways and ride up wind.
How quickly will I progress?
Kitesurfing is a skill based sport and we have to achieve certain skills before we can move on the next stage.  If you can fly 2 line or power kites, the first stages will go faster, if you can wakeboard, snowboard, surf, windsurf or even skateboard the second stages will go faster. Everyone has different skill levels coming into kitesurf and everyone will progress at a different rate.                                          
How long should I fly a big kite on land before going in the water?
Never fly a big kite on land if you are a beginner!! Not controlling the power of the kite could get you airborne and smash you hard against the ground (or worst a wall, tree or house…). You will hurt yourself and break your gear. Always play with the big kites in waist deep water as it will soften any hard landing. Only fly big kites on land when you have become confident.
What does IKO mean?
IKO means International Kitesurfing Organization. OceanXtreme director Andrew Self being IKO certified is the insurance of a good quality teaching standards and safety.
How can I have a discount?
Some of our deals (especially package deals) are already operating at a 10 to 50% discount. We also offer discounts for groups of five or more people. We are regularly offering online specials on our Facebook wall or in our newsletters so keep informed and subscribe to it right now!
What is the best period for kitesurfing in NZ?
New Zealand is a windy destination all year-round, ranging from gentle breezes to raging storms! The period from September to January gets particularly good westerly winds averaging 20-25 knots 5 days in 7. From January to March (summer), NE and SW Sea breezes are common and over 15 knots 5 days in 7. April to June (autumn) gets the lightest winds and winter (June to August) can vary from nothing to gale in the same day!
The maritime climate is keeping the temperature in Auckland in between 15-20° during spring and autumn, 20-25°C in summer. The sea temperature is pleasant all year around, with the need for a wetsuit outside the summer period because of the wind chill mainly.
Wave riding opportunities are found on both coasts all year-round, depending on the swell direction.