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 (a two-to-four hour return journey), which keeps this stretch less pressured than more accessible Wellington spots. The reward is harbour-entrance fishing with real variety: terakihi, kahawai, gurnard, blue cod, snapper and kingfish are all possible along the Pencarrow coast.
Practical Information
| Location | Pencarrow Head, eastern Wellington Harbour entrance — accessed from Eastbourne |
|---|---|
| Access | On foot or by bike from Eastbourne (4hr return walk; 1.5hr return by bike); bike hire available near the gate in summer |
| Key species | Terakihi, kahawai, gurnard, blue cod, snapper, trevally, kingfish |
| Season | Good year-round; snapper and kingfish peak December–March |
| Regional park | East Harbour Regional Park (managed by Greater Wellington Regional Council) |
About the Spot
Pencarrow and Fitzroy Bay sit at the harbour entrance where oceanic and harbour water mixes — a transition zone that attracts a wide range of species. The position means water clarity and fish variety are generally better than in the inner harbour. Terakihi are one of the signature catches along this stretch, taken from rocky positions on ledger rigs. Kahawai are reliable on lures, and gurnard are common from the sandy-bottomed sections of the bay.
The harbour-entrance position also means snapper and trevally move through regularly, particularly in the warmer months. Kingfish are taken here in summer — the deep water off the outer headland provides the kind of habitat they favour. Blue cod and various shark species are also present in the rougher ground around the head itself.
Pencarrow is less crowded than most Wellington fishing spots simply because of 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 over 10km of shoreline one-way.
Getting There
The track starts from the gate at the end of Muritai Road in Eastbourne. Bike hire is available near the gate during summer. The track runs along the harbour edge through East Harbour Regional Park — a flat, well-formed path suitable for road bikes and MTBs. The lighthouse is approximately 8km from the gate; Fitzroy Bay is a further distance beyond. Allow a full day if exploring on foot.
Where to Learn More
Fishing in Fitzroy Bay — The Fishing Website — detailed guide to fishing the Pencarrow and Fitzroy Bay area.
Wellington Rocks: The Windy City’s Best Shore Spots — NZ Fishing World — includes the harbour entrance area in its Wellington fishing overview.
East Harbour Regional Park — Greater Wellington Regional Council — track information, access details and park facilities including the Pencarrow coast road.
FAQ
How do I get to Pencarrow for fishing?
Drive to Eastbourne and start from the gate at the end of Muritai Road. Walk (4hr return) or bike (1.5hr return) along the coast track. Bike hire is available near the gate in summer.
What fish can I catch near Pencarrow?
Terakihi, kahawai, gurnard and blue cod are the most consistent catches. Snapper, trevally and kingfish are possible in season around Fitzroy Bay and the harbour entrance.
Is it worth the walk?
Yes — the effort involved keeps this stretch less pressured than Wellington’s more accessible spots, and the harbour-entrance location produces greater species variety and larger fish than the inner harbour.
Is there a bike track to Pencarrow?
Yes — the Pencarrow Coast Road is a well-formed flat track along the harbourside suitable for most bikes. It is part of East Harbour Regional Park.
Pencarrow fishing is part of the Fishing in Wellington guide. For more accessible harbour fishing, Wellington Harbour has a full guide to shore spots, and Petone Wharf on the eastern harbour shore is a good complement to a Pencarrow trip.
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