Last updated July 2026
Red Rocks (Pariwhero) is a striking stretch of Wellington’s south coast featuring rust-red pillow lava outcroppings along the shoreline at Ōwhiro Bay. The rocky coastline offers structure fishing for species such as blue moki, blue cod, terakihi and sea perch beyond the Taputeranga Marine Reserve boundary. The walk out to Red Rocks is one of Wellington’s most scenic coastal excursions, passing a New Zealand fur seal colony that occupies the rocks during winter and spring.
Practical Information
| Location | Red Rocks/Pariwhero, Ōwhiro Bay, Wellington |
| Access | Car park at the end of Ōwhiro Bay Parade; walk along coastal track to Red Rocks |
| Key species | Blue moki, blue cod, terakihi, sea perch, kahawai, red moki |
| Marine Reserve | Taputeranga Marine Reserve — check boundaries before fishing; no-take zone within the reserve |
| Seal colony | Fur seals at Red Rocks May–October (bachelor male colony) |
| Walk distance | Approximately 7.4 km return for the full coastal walk to Sinclair Head |
Marine Reserve — Know Before You Go
The Taputeranga Marine Reserve, established in 2008, covers a significant stretch of Wellington’s south coast including much of the area around Island Bay and Te Kopahou. The reserve is a no-take zone within its boundaries. Anglers must check the reserve’s exact boundary before fishing around the Red Rocks and Ōwhiro Bay area to ensure they are fishing outside the reserve. The Department of Conservation provides up-to-date boundary information and maps.
About the Spot
Beyond the marine reserve boundary, the rocky coastline at and around Red Rocks offers structure fishing typical of Wellington’s exposed south coast. The pillow lava formations create crevices and ledges that hold blue moki and red moki, both excellent table fish that inhabit kelp-covered rocky ground. Blue cod, terakihi and sea perch are taken from deeper rock positions, and kahawai patrol the surface along current lines.
The exposed nature of the coast means sea conditions need to be carefully assessed before positioning close to the water’s edge. Fishing is permitted only outside the reserve boundaries, and anglers should consult current regulations from the Department of Conservation and Ministry for Primary Industries.
The Walk and Seal Colony
The coastal walk from the Ōwhiro Bay car park to Red Rocks runs along a rough track with views across Cook Strait. From May to October, a bachelor fur seal colony occupies the red rocks at Pariwhero. The seals are a highlight of the walk but should be observed from a distance of at least 10 metres. The presence of seals on and around the rocks means some positions may be inaccessible during the winter season.
The full Red Rocks Coastal Walk is 7.4 km return and takes 2–3 hours. The track starts from the car park at the end of Ōwhiro Bay Parade at the entrance to Te Kopahou Reserve.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers describe the track as rugged and scenic with dramatic coastal views and a good chance of seeing seals up close during the right season. Many note the need for sturdy footwear and awareness of tides and weather.
Anglers mention the area as a rewarding but challenging spot for rock fishing, emphasising the importance of checking marine reserve boundaries and monitoring sea conditions carefully.
Where to Learn More
Wellington City Council: details on the Red Rocks Coastal Walk, access, parking and track conditions.
Department of Conservation: official information on Taputeranga Marine Reserve boundaries, rules and maps.
Department of Conservation: interactive map and GPS points for the Taputeranga Marine Reserve boundaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Red Rocks?
Red Rocks (Pariwhero) is at Ōwhiro Bay on Wellington’s south coast. Park at the end of Ōwhiro Bay Parade and follow the coastal track.
Can I fish at Red Rocks?
Fishing is permitted only outside the Taputeranga Marine Reserve boundaries. Check the exact boundaries on the Department of Conservation website before fishing, as the reserve is a no-take zone.
Are there seals at Red Rocks?
Yes, a bachelor fur seal colony occupies the Red Rocks area from around May to October each year. Keep at least 10 metres away and do not disturb them.
What fish can I catch outside the reserve?
Blue moki, red moki, blue cod, terakihi, sea perch and kahawai are among the species reported from rock positions outside the marine reserve boundary.
How long is the walk to Red Rocks?
The full Red Rocks Coastal Walk is 7.4 km return and takes 2–3 hours. Red Rocks itself is reached partway along the track.
Is the track suitable for all abilities?
The track is rough and exposed with some 4WD use at times. It is best suited to those with appropriate footwear and fitness for a coastal walk.
When was the marine reserve established?
The Taputeranga Marine Reserve was established in 2008.
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