Greta Point is one of Wellington’s better-known shore fishing spots — a rocky point on the western shore of Evans Bay, halfway between the city waterfront and the airport. The area around the NIWA building on Evans Bay Parade is a reliable casting platform, known for producing consistent gurnard alongside kahawai, trevally and — in summer — genuine kingfish on live bait. For anglers who want variety without travelling far from central Wellington, Greta Point delivers a more productive session than most city-fringe spots.
Practical Information
| Location | Greta Point, Evans Bay Parade, Wellington (near NIWA at 301 Evans Bay Parade) |
|---|---|
| Access | Shore fishing, free public access |
| Key species | Gurnard, kahawai, trevally, kingfish (summer), spotty sharks |
| Best technique | Shore cast east for gurnard; livebaits along the point for kingfish in summer |
| Season | Good year-round; kingfish peak December–March |
About the Spot
The casting position at Greta Point — fishing from the NIWA building entrance eastward across Evans Bay — puts baits and lures into water that holds gurnard reliably. Gurnard is a sandy-bottom species and Evans Bay’s floor is suited to them; anglers using ledger rigs with baited hooks near the bottom should expect consistent results. The species is good table fish and makes Greta Point worthwhile even on quiet days.
Beyond gurnard, the point is a recognised location for summer kingfish. The approach is to work livebaits — kahawai, mackerel or yellowtail — along the Greta Point shoreline during the warmer months. Kingfish patrol this stretch of the harbour in summer and will take a well-presented livebait. Casting metal lures is also effective when fish are visible working bait schools on the surface. Spotty sharks are an occasional by-catch and will take most baits on the bottom.
The broader Evans Bay area, including points to the north of Greta Point such as the Hataitai shore, is also worth prospecting for kingfish and kahawai on lures in summer.
Getting There
Greta Point is on Evans Bay Parade — take the coastal road from the city waterfront through Te Aro and Newtown. Limited street parking is available along Evans Bay Parade. The spot is accessible on foot from the Hataitai end of the waterfront path.
Where to Learn More
Wellington Rocks: The Windy City’s Best Shore Spots — NZ Fishing World — includes Greta Point in its guide to Wellington’s best land-based fishing.
A Guide to Wellington’s Fishing — The Fishing Website — seasonal overview of Wellington harbour fishing including Evans Bay.
FAQ
Where is Greta Point?
Greta Point is on Evans Bay Parade in Wellington, near the NIWA marine research facility at 301 Evans Bay Parade.
What fish can I catch at Greta Point?
Gurnard is the most consistent catch. Kahawai and trevally are common, and kingfish are possible in summer (December–March). Spotty sharks are an occasional by-catch.
Is it good for kingfish?
Yes — Greta Point and the Evans Bay shore north of it are recognised kingfish spots in summer. Livebait fishing with kahawai or yellowtail worked along the shoreline is the most effective approach.
What technique works best?
For gurnard, a ledger rig with bait on the bottom cast east from the NIWA entrance. For kingfish in summer, livebaits worked along the shore or metal lures cast to visible surface activity.
Greta Point is part of the wider Fishing in Wellington guide. Other harbour spots nearby include Oriental Bay to the north and Wellington Harbour fishing overview for a broader picture of harbour species and spots.