Piha Surf School

Thanks heaps again for the lesson Phil!Phil was a fantastic instructor. His instructions in regards to technique & safety were very clear. The thing we really loved about Phil is his passion and enthusiasm for Piha, surfing and being a really good coach/instructor. It made us feel good about ourselves and confident in our abilities.Would highly recommend.

If I could give more than 5 stars to this review I would. Had a few sessions with Phil who’s extensive surf knowledge and background, with ability to channel learning to the individuals style is outstanding. Highly recommend to anyone wanting to try or further develop their surfing.

Could not have had a better lesson with Phil! Due to a last minute stay in Piha, I only reached out to Phil a day in advance, but he was willing to take me early the next morning before I left town- so grateful! The time spent was beyond worth it just to hang with such a wonderful, wise human being, but he really gave me so much insight on how to improve my surf skills! I had been out three times prior with no proper lesson, but Phil took me back to the fundamentals and spent the proper time to refine my form. He helped me get up, learn to steer, and even gave me drills to work on in the gym/at home to improve my strength and swimming. He also had me on two different boards to experience a longer foam board and one that was a little zippier. I was tired by the end but feeling much more confident for my next time out.I packed a lot into my two days in Piha, but I would prioritize my lesson with him over everything else, he was fantastic and it was so fun! Phil was meant to teach people how to be in the water on a board, I really lucked out getting a lesson!

Highly recommend! We had a great experience learning to surf on a beautiful beach. Our instructor was knowledgeable and patient. He knows how to read the waves and kept everyone safe with a strong rip tide in the area. Even my 63 year old dad with arthritis in his hips and knee was able to stand and ride a few waves!

Piha Surf School was much better than previous lessons i've done, by the end of the class I was able to stand and ride almost any wave that Phil (instructor) told me to. It was so good we went back and did a second class a couple of days later. Highly recommended!

Phil was absolutely wonderful. We booked in with him as it was my sister's dream to surf while she visited me here in NZ. Not only did Phil give us instructions, but he actually came in the water to make sure we got up on the board - we were properly surfing in no time. Then Phil drove us to where a friend was so we could meet with her briefly. Excellent customer service above & beyond, excellent instructions - oh and he gave us a peach from his very own peach tree and taught us about the town of Piha. Thank you Phil - 10/10 recommend.

I took one group class with Zen and one with Phil. They were both so great !First they remind you the good mouvements and safety basis so you fell very comfortable and safe. Then, they were both very good teacher and very patient !I really enjoyed my time with them and felt that I improved !Cheers to both of you !

I had an amazing surf lesson with Phil who is a very good teacher. Whatever your current experience is, Phil will improve your surf skills !

My husband and I booked a beginner’s lesson with Phil and had the BEST time. I was expecting to actually catch a wave once or twice, but Phil had us up on our boards right from the start! If you’re looking for surf lessons in the area, don’t go anywhere else!

My 11 year old daughter had an amazing time learning to surf over the school holidays. She felt welcomed, safe and was very happy (and very tired) every single day. The instructors were generous with their time and patience, and best of all, she made amazing progress. I thoroughly recommend this surf school and their highly qualified and experienced instructors.