Hauraki Gulf

Auckland, New Zealand · Saltwater · Beginner

Auckland's front yard and one of the most productive snapper fisheries in the country. Work the foul ground and channels between the islands, or chase workups where kingfish and snapper smash bait balls.

Getting there & access

  • Fish from: boat
  • Boat ramp: Westhaven Marina, run by Auckland Council (Panuku), has the main public launching ramp on the Waitematā Harbour side of the gulf, with parking for up to 60 boats and trailers (pay-by-plate, up to 4 days, paid at ramp machines or the INUGO app)

Auckland Council and Auckland Transport manage all the other public boat ramps and wharves around the wider Auckland region — Westhaven is only the largest, not the only one.

Access information source

Species

  • snapper
  • yellowtail kingfish
  • john dory

Best times to fish

  • Spring snapper (Oct-Dec)
  • Summer workups
  • Changing tides

Recommended gear

Essential

  • Medium spin combo (20-30lb braid)
  • Soft baits and slow jigs
  • Berley
  • Fluorocarbon leader

Optional

  • Boat or charter
  • Sounder
  • Kayak for inshore reefs

Regulations and requirements

  • No licence required for recreational sea fishing
  • Snapper bag limit and minimum size apply in this area
  • Check Fisheries NZ for current limits and closed areas

Rules change regularly — always confirm with the relevant fisheries authority before you fish.

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