Southern suburbs

Bays and beaches around Wellington's southern coast.

Houghton Bay Beach

Houghton Bay Beach is good for short walks, picnics and exercising your dog.

Island Bay Beach

Island Bay Beach is a popular spot for swimming, diving and snorkelling.

Owhiro Bay

Owhiro Bay marks the entrance to Wellington south coast and has a boat ramp.

Princess Bay Beach

At Princess Bay you can swim, take a short walk, or explore rock pools.

Red Rocks / Pariwhero

The walk from Owhiro Bay Quarry on the coastal 4WD track takes just under an hour and passes historic baches.

Sinclair Head / Te Rimurapa

Along from Red Rocks, Sinclair Head is popular for seal spotting in winter.

Tarakena Bay

Sheltered Tarakena Bay is popular for diving, snorkelling and exploring rock pools. You can also launch your boat from there.

Te Kopahou – Entrance to Red Rocks

The quarry forms the starting point of an easy walk or off-road cycle to Red Rocks or Sinclair Head.