Red Rocks (Pariwhero) is a striking stretch of Wellington’s south coast — rust-red pillow lava outcroppings along the shoreline at Ōwhiro Bay, about 8km from the city centre. The rocky coastline offers structure fishing for blue moki, blue cod, terakihi and sea perch beyond the Taputeranga Marine Reserve boundary. The walk out to Red Rocks is also 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 — ~8km from the city |
|---|---|
| Access | Car park at the end of Ōwhiro Bay Parade; walk ~3km to Red Rocks on a 4WD track |
| Key species | Blue moki, blue cod, terakihi, sea perch, butterfish, kahawai, red moki |
| Marine Reserve | Taputeranga Marine Reserve — check boundaries before fishing; no-take zone applies within the reserve |
| Seal colony | Fur seals at Red Rocks May–October (bachelor male colony) |
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 and MPI have up-to-date boundary information on their websites.
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 butterfish and marblefish (both within the reserve — do not target in the no-take area) are present throughout the rocky reef.
Kahawai patrol the surface along current lines and provide reliable sport on lures for those willing to cast from accessible rock positions. The exposed nature of the coast means sea conditions need to be carefully assessed before positioning close to the water’s edge.
The Walk and Seal Colony
The 3km walk from the Ōwhiro Bay car park to Red Rocks runs along a rough coastal 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 (at least 10 metres). The presence of seals on and around the rocks means some positions may be inaccessible during the winter season.
Where to Learn More
Red Rocks/Pariwhero — Wellington City Council — access, track information and visitor notes for the Red Rocks reserve.
Taputeranga Marine Reserve — Department of Conservation — reserve boundaries, rules and what is and isn’t permitted.
Wellington Rocks: The Windy City’s Best Shore Spots — NZ Fishing World — guide to Wellington’s south coast fishing positions.
FAQ
Where is Red Rocks?
Red Rocks (Pariwhero) is at the end of Ōwhiro Bay, about 8km from Wellington city centre. Park at the end of Ōwhiro Bay Parade and walk approximately 3km along the coast track.
Can I fish at Red Rocks?
The Taputeranga Marine Reserve covers much of this coastline. You must check the reserve’s exact boundaries before fishing — fishing within the reserve is prohibited. The DOC website has up-to-date boundary maps.
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 the most likely species from rock positions outside the marine reserve boundary.
Red Rocks is covered as part of the Fishing in Wellington guide. For south coast fishing west of the reserve, Makara Beach is Wellington’s most productive trophy snapper and trevally coast.