East Auckland offers some of the city’s best and most diverse fishing locations, ranging from quiet estuaries to rugged coastal points.
Whether you prefer land-based fishing or launching a boat, the area provides plenty of productive spots known for snapper, kahawai, trevally, and seasonal species. Here’s some of the top fishing locations in our local community and what makes each one special.
Bucklands Beach and Musick Point
Bucklands Beach is an accessible and popular location for shore anglers. The sheltered waters make it ideal for families and beginners. Fishing is best during the incoming tide, when kahawai, snapper, and the occasional trevally come closer to shore. At the northern end, Musick Point offers deeper water and stronger currents, attracting larger fish. The rocky ledges here suit experienced anglers comfortable with casting heavier gear.
Half Moon Bay Marina
Although the marina itself is restricted, the surrounding rocky points and breakwaters are excellent for land-based fishing. Early mornings and evenings are prime times for catching snapper and kahawai. The area is also a common launching point for those heading out into the Tamaki Strait, where deeper channels hold gurnard, kingfish, and schools of baitfish.
Eastern Beach
Known mainly as a swimming beach, Eastern Beach can also produce surprisingly good fishing, especially at the southern end near the rocks. Light-tackle fishing works well here, with piper, small snapper, and kahawai frequenting the shallows. During calm conditions, it’s also a pleasant spot for soft-baiting.
Maraetai Wharf and surrounding bays
Maraetai Wharf is a favourite with families and casual anglers. The wharf extends into moderate depth, attracting sprats, jack mackerel, snapper, and squid at night. Nearby spots such as Omana Beach and Duders Regional Park offer excellent rock and beach fishing in a scenic setting. These areas fish best on a rising tide when the channels funnel fish close to shore.
Beachlands and Te Puru
The rocky coast around Beachlands and Te Puru Park provides great options for those seeking more rugged land-based fishing. Kingfish occasionally hunt close to the rocks, and snapper are common in the deeper pockets. The area is also productive for soft-baiting from kayaks.
