The Ditch (aka Evans Bay)

In central Wellington, this is probably the most frequently sailed spot in the greater Wellington area. Heaps of freeriding and freestyle going on here most days of the week and in the evenings over summer. The WWA also usually holds at least one Freewave event here per year. For sailors owning racing gear, this spot is sailable probably most days of the year. Big chop comes through on a strong northerly, conditions are smoother in southerlies.

Sailors can launch from either side, Kio Bay or Shark Bay.

Kio Bay

Kio Bay is the Wellington city side of Evans Bay. This launch is best when the southerly blows. There are concrete steps down to a stony beach (its a tiny beach at high tide).

Shark Bay

Shark Bay is the Miramar side of Evans Bay. This launch is best in northerlies. Steps down from small roadside car park down to stony beach. A bit more room off the road to park & rig than the Kio side.

Who does it suit

The Ditch suits all levels of sailors, but make sure you can waterstart if its windy. You'll be blown downwind rapidly if you are stuck in the water off your board.

What are the best conditions

Works best in a true northerly or a southerly. Anything else can get a bit gusty. The ditch works like a funnel, the wind picks up through the valley and accelerates a few knots more than it would be in the middle of the harbour or at Wellington airport.

How do I get there

From central Wellington, head around the Oriental parade onto Evans Bay Parade past Balena Bay, until you reach Kio Bay. For the Shark bay side, head towards the airport along Cobham drive and turn left at the roundabout and then left again along Shelley Bay Road. Shark Bay is about 1km along on the left.

What should I look out for

Watch out for racing yachts that often come in to Evans bay on their race days. Also be aware of people trawing with long lines behind their boats, you don't want to end up as their catch!

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