Last updated July 2026
Petone Wharf is a historic timber structure on the Petone Foreshore in Lower Hutt on the eastern side of Wellington Harbour. It was long popular for recreational fishing, particularly for kahawai, and served as an accessible spot for families and beginners. The wharf has been closed to the public since 2021 following storm and earthquake damage. Partial remediation work is planned to restore and reopen a section, with council confirming continuation of the project in early 2026.
Practical Information
| Location | Petone Foreshore, Petone, Lower Hutt |
| Access | Closed to the public since 2021; partial reopening planned |
| Key species (historical) | Kahawai, yellow-eyed mullet, barracouta, gurnard; occasional snapper and kingfish in summer |
| Best season (historical) | Kahawai year-round; snapper and kingfish peak December–March |
| Facilities | Petone Foreshore walkway, parking, public toilets and playground nearby |
About Petone Wharf
Petone Wharf was a 116-year-old heritage timber structure that extended into Wellington Harbour from the Petone Foreshore. Its position benefited from tidal currents that concentrated baitfish and attracted predators, making it productive for kahawai throughout the year. Yellow-eyed mullet were common in the shallows and often used as live bait.
Standard techniques included berleying the area, then fishing a live yellow-eyed mullet under a float on a 5/0 circle hook in the current. Spinning with metal lures or soft-baits also worked well when fish were feeding on the surface. Barracouta provided aggressive sport on lures, while gurnard and small tarakihi featured in cooler months.
Summer reports occasionally included snapper and kingfish, though these were never guaranteed. The sheltered inner-harbour location allowed fishing in conditions that closed exposed south-coast spots.
The wharf formed part of the popular Petone Foreshore recreation area, which includes a shared path, parking, toilets and playground facilities. It was lit at night, supporting evening sessions when open.
Current Status and Future Plans
Petone Wharf has remained closed since early 2021 after damage from storms and earthquakes. Hutt City Council has allocated funding for partial remediation to preserve a major section as a heritage landmark and reopen it for public use. Work is scheduled to proceed under the Long Term Plan, though no reopening date has been confirmed as of mid-2026.
Where to Learn More
Hutt City Council – Petone Wharf Project: Official updates on the closure, remediation plans and project timeline.
Hutt City Council – Next steps for Petone Wharf: Details on the decision to partially restore and reopen a section of the wharf.
What Visitors Often Say
Anglers recalled consistent kahawai action and easy live-bait fishing that suited beginners and children. Many appreciated the sheltered location and the combination of fishing with foreshore walks and playground visits.
Regulars noted the wharf’s reliable currents and the chance of summer snapper or kingfish, while emphasising the convenience of nearby parking and facilities when the structure was open.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Petone Wharf?
Petone Wharf is located on the Petone Foreshore in Lower Hutt on the eastern side of Wellington Harbour.
Is Petone Wharf open for fishing?
No. The wharf has been closed to the public since 2021 due to structural damage and remains closed pending partial remediation.
What species were commonly caught at Petone Wharf?
Kahawai were the most consistent catch year-round, along with yellow-eyed mullet and barracouta. Snapper and kingfish appeared occasionally in summer, with gurnard and tarakihi in cooler months.
Was Petone Wharf suitable for children?
Yes, when open it was frequently recommended for introducing children to fishing because of easy access and reliable yellow-eyed mullet action.
What techniques worked well at Petone Wharf?
Berleying followed by live yellow-eyed mullet under a float on a circle hook was a standard and effective method. Spinning with metals or soft-baits also produced results.
Are there parking and facilities nearby?
Yes. The Petone Foreshore offers parking, public toilets and a playground adjacent to the wharf site.
What is the current plan for the wharf?
Hutt City Council is progressing partial remediation within a $12 million budget to preserve a section of the heritage structure and reopen it for public use.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.