Last updated July 2026
Pencarrow Head marks the eastern entrance to Wellington Harbour, and the coastline around it, particularly Fitzroy Bay, offers productive shore fishing for anglers willing to make the trip. Access is on foot or by bicycle from Eastbourne, which keeps this stretch less pressured than more accessible Wellington spots. The reward is harbour-entrance fishing with real variety, including terakihi, kahawai, gurnard, blue cod, snapper and kingfish along the Pencarrow coast. The area forms part of East Harbour Regional Park and features the historic Pencarrow Lighthouse, New Zealand’s first permanent lighthouse.
Practical Information
| Location | Pencarrow Head and Fitzroy Bay, eastern Wellington Harbour entrance, accessed from Eastbourne |
| Access | On foot or by bike from Burdan’s Gate at the end of Muritai Road, Eastbourne; 7km one way to the lighthouse (approximately 4-hour return walk or 1.5–2-hour return by bike) |
| Key species | Terakihi, kahawai, gurnard, blue cod, snapper, trevally, kingfish |
| Season | Good year-round; snapper and kingfish often peak in warmer months |
| Regional park | East Harbour Regional Park (managed by Greater Wellington Regional Council) |
| Track | Wide metalled Pencarrow Coast Road, flat and suitable for most bikes |
| Bike hire | Available near the gate during summer |
About Pencarrow Head and Fitzroy Bay
Pencarrow Head and Fitzroy Bay sit at the harbour entrance where oceanic and harbour waters mix, creating a transition zone that attracts a wide range of fish species. The position generally provides better water clarity and fish variety than the inner harbour. Terakihi are a signature catch along this stretch, often taken from rocky positions on ledger rigs, while kahawai respond well to lures and gurnard are common from sandy-bottomed sections of the bay.
The harbour-entrance location also brings snapper and trevally through regularly, particularly in warmer months. Kingfish are taken here in summer, with the deeper water off the outer headland providing favoured habitat. Blue cod and various shark species appear in the rougher ground around the head itself. Fitzroy Bay’s cleaner beaches add opportunities for kahawai, gurnard, trevally and moki.
Pencarrow remains less crowded than most Wellington fishing spots due to the access requirement. Taking a bicycle significantly reduces travel time and opens up more of the coastline. The track from Eastbourne along the water’s edge to the lighthouse and beyond covers several kilometres of shoreline.
Access and Getting There
The track starts from Burdan’s Gate at the southern end of Muritai Road in Eastbourne. The Pencarrow Coast Road is a wide metalled track that runs south through East Harbour Regional Park. It is flat and well-formed, suitable for road bikes and mountain bikes. The lighthouse lies approximately 7km from the gate. Allow a full day if exploring extensively on foot. Bike hire is available near the gate during summer. Note that dogs must be on a leash on the Pencarrow Road south of Burdan’s Gate to the lower lighthouse between 31 October and 31 July, with no dogs allowed between 1 August and 30 October. No public access continues beyond the Parangarahu Lakes area to Fitzroy Bay without landowner permission.
The Historic Pencarrow Lighthouse
The original Pencarrow Lighthouse, built in 1859, was New Zealand’s first permanent lighthouse and the country’s only one with a female keeper, Mary Jane Bennett. Visitors can reach the site via the Lighthouse Track branching inland from the coast road. The area offers interpretation panels on maritime history and shipwrecks, along with views across the harbour entrance and Cook Strait. The newer automated lighthouse stands nearby.
What Visitors Often Say
Anglers and cyclists describe the ride or walk as rewarding for the scenery and relative solitude, with good catches of terakihi and kahawai from the rocks and beaches. Many note the flat track makes it accessible by bike and appreciate the historic lighthouse as a highlight at the turnaround point.
Walkers and families mention the four-hour return as manageable for fit visitors, with strong winds possible on exposed sections. Reviewers often recommend starting early, carrying water and layers, and combining the trip with lighthouse viewing or a picnic.
Where to Learn More
Greater Wellington Regional Council – East Harbour Regional Park: official details on access, tracks, rules and facilities for the Pencarrow coast.
Fishing in Fitzroy Bay – The Fishing Website: guide to shore fishing opportunities and species in the Pencarrow and Fitzroy Bay area.
WellingtonNZ – Pencarrow Coast Road: trail information including distance, conditions and bike hire notes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Pencarrow for fishing?
Drive or take the ferry to Eastbourne and start from Burdan’s Gate at the end of Muritai Road. Walk (around 4 hours return) or bike (1.5–2 hours return) along the Pencarrow Coast Road. Bike hire is available near the gate in summer.
What fish can I catch near Pencarrow?
Terakihi, kahawai, gurnard and blue cod are consistent catches. Snapper, trevally and kingfish are possible in season around Fitzroy Bay and the harbour entrance.
Is the track suitable for bikes?
Yes, the Pencarrow Coast Road is a wide, flat, metalled track suitable for most bikes and forms part of East Harbour Regional Park.
Are dogs allowed on the track?
Dogs must be on a leash on the Pencarrow Road south of Burdan’s Gate to the lower lighthouse between 31 October and 31 July. No dogs are allowed on that section between 1 August and 30 October.
How far is the lighthouse from Eastbourne?
The lighthouse is approximately 7km one way along the coast road from Burdan’s Gate.
Is swimming recommended?
Greater Wellington Regional Council does not recommend swimming in the sea south of Burdan’s Gate due to conditions.
Can I continue past the lighthouse to Fitzroy Bay?
Public access beyond the Parangarahu Lakes area to Fitzroy Bay requires permission from private landowners. Contact the park ranger in advance if needed.
What should I take on the trip?
Take food, water, warm clothing, sun protection and be prepared for strong winds, especially on exposed sections.
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