Right on the edge of town this is a lot more convenient than many other North Island spots. It is popular with kite surfers and windsurfers during the summer, and is suitable for those who are rated intermediate or better.
The beach is sandy and clear, but as it's right on the edge of town it can get crowded especially between December and February. It is quite long, about 2.5 km, and there are plenty of places to rig up. In summer water is warm and a shorty is all you'll need, while a thick wetsuit will be required in winter.
The summer months between November and March are the best time to come out here, when the wind blows from the north-west and south-east making it a sideshore. The speed is usually 15 to 20 knots or thereabouts. The water is shallow and clean and is generally flat or choppy although on the odd day you can get small waves up to about 1 m high.
There are some good facilities here, including a shop where you can buy or hire gear and lifeguards on the beach. There are showers and public toilets, there is plenty of parking within a couple of minutes walk of the beach, and there are food outlets too. The town is a good size and has plenty of accommodation on offer.
There aren't really any hazards here unless you count the swimmers, it's a very safe place to be out, and just in case there are rescue teams on hand.