Petone is the most accessible kitesurf spot in the Wellington region, located at the head of Wellington Harbour, in Lower Hutt. It is the best place in Wellington for beginners and intermediates who do not wish to drive to the Kapiti coast. The spot is generally uncrowded with a wide launch zone. The launch site is at Hikoikoi Reserve, at the eastern end of the Esplanade. Winds work from southeast to south-southwest, with the best conditions in direct south wind. In pure south wind, Petone seems to offer the most consistent wind in all of Wellington. For beginners, the best time to ride is between mid-tide and low tide, where you can walk in the water for about 40 meters thanks to the gentle slope of the beach. The sports fields directly behind the beach serve as a safety net in case of problems. The gently sloping beach creates small waves that break on windy days, offering good ramps on port tack. It is an ideal spot for progressing safely in a pleasant urban setting, with many cafes and restaurants nearby on the Petone Esplanade.