Last updated July 2026
Greta Point is a popular shore fishing spot on the western shore of Evans Bay in Wellington, located roughly halfway between the city waterfront and the airport. The rocky point near the NIWA building on Evans Bay Parade provides a reliable casting platform for anglers targeting gurnard and other species without needing to travel far from central Wellington. Anglers report consistent results with ledger rigs cast eastward into the bay, where the sandy bottom suits gurnard. In summer, livebait techniques along the shoreline can produce kingfish, while kahawai, trevally and occasional spotty sharks add variety. The spot offers free public access and is suitable for year-round fishing, though conditions vary with tides and weather.
Practical Information
| Location | Greta Point, Evans Bay Parade, Wellington (near NIWA at 301 Evans Bay Parade) |
| Access | Shore fishing from rocks and promenade, free public access |
| Key species | Gurnard, kahawai, trevally, kingfish (summer), spotty sharks; snapper reported occasionally |
| Best technique | Ledger rigs with bait on the bottom cast east for gurnard; livebaits or metal lures for kingfish in summer |
| Season | Good year-round for gurnard; kingfish peak December–March |
| Parking | Limited street parking along Evans Bay Parade |
About Greta Point
Greta Point lies on Evans Bay Parade in the suburb of Hataitai, offering easy access to the sheltered waters of Evans Bay within Wellington Harbour. The NIWA marine research facility at 301 Evans Bay Parade marks the main fishing area, where the shoreline allows casts directly into deeper water suitable for bottom-feeding species like gurnard.
Gurnard are the most consistent catch here due to the sandy seabed, and anglers using standard ledger rigs with bait such as squid or pilchards often report steady action. The fish are valued as good table fare, making the spot worthwhile even on slower days. Kahawai and trevally are also commonly encountered, often taken on lures or bait.
During summer months, kingfish patrol the shoreline and respond well to livebaits such as kahawai or yellowtail worked along the point. Metal lures cast toward surface activity can also be effective. Spotty sharks occasionally take baits intended for other species. Recent fishing reports note that snapper have also been caught in the broader Evans Bay area, including near Greta Point.
The surrounding Evans Bay shoreline, including areas north toward Hataitai, provides additional options for prospecting the same species. The location benefits from its proximity to central Wellington while remaining relatively quiet compared to busier waterfront spots.
Getting There and Access
Greta Point is reached via Evans Bay Parade, the coastal road running from the city waterfront through Te Aro and Newtown. Limited on-street parking is available along the parade near the NIWA building. The spot is also accessible on foot via the waterfront path from the Hataitai direction. Public access is free, and rod holders are sometimes noted on fences in the area.
What Visitors Often Say
Anglers describe Greta Point as a convenient city-fringe option that produces gurnard reliably on bottom rigs, though success can vary day to day. Summer sessions targeting kingfish with livebaits are highlighted as rewarding when conditions align, and some report good kahawai catches on spinners or lures.
Visitors note the easy access near the NIWA facility and the presence of rod holders, making it practical for short sessions. Reports mention occasional larger fish like snapper in Evans Bay and the scenic harbour setting as bonuses for a quick fishing outing from central Wellington.
Where to Learn More
The Fishing Website: Seasonal overview of Wellington harbour fishing including Evans Bay spots.
Anglers Planet: Guide to Wellington’s best shore fishing spots featuring Greta Point details.
Pete Lamb Fishing: Wellington fishing articles listing Greta Point species and techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions
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, kingfish are possible in summer (December–March), and spotty sharks are an occasional by-catch. Snapper have also been reported in the area.
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, use a ledger rig with bait on the bottom cast east from the NIWA entrance. For kingfish in summer, work livebaits along the shore or cast metal lures to visible surface activity.
Is parking available?
Limited street parking is available along Evans Bay Parade near the fishing area.
Is access free?
Yes, Greta Point offers free public access for shore fishing.
When is the best time to fish?
The spot fishes well year-round for gurnard, with kingfish activity peaking in the warmer months from December to March.
Are there any regulations to note?
Standard recreational fishing rules for Wellington Harbour apply; check current regulations with Fish & Game New Zealand before fishing.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.