Discover the Harbour

Beach, Swim and Play

While Titahi Bay is Porirua’s premier surf beach you can also enjoy swimming at Dolly Varden beach near the Paremata bridge and at Plimmerton Check the LAWA site first to ensure the water quality is safe.

Cycling

Cycles several beautiful routes e.g. the Whitireia Peninsula, from Paremata through the Ngāti Toa Domain and on to Plimmerton or the Te Ara Piko pathway around the Inlet. Take care as these are all shared pathways and walkers have priority.

More information from the Porirua City Council.

Fishing

Fin fishing is best done at the entrances to both arms of the harbour. A variety of fish can be caught though not abundantly. We would caution against the taking of shellfish from the harbour flats as sewage overflows and other contaminants pose health risks for consumers

Hospitality

Porirua’s cafe culture is alive and well around the harbour. The CBD has several outlets in Kaitahi adjacent to the waterfront, Dolly Varden beach has the Olive container coffee stop, Plimmerton Village has several cafes, the boat club has a cafe with water views and Pāuatahanui Village has two eating venues.

Kayaking and paddle boarding

The sheltered and shallow waters of both arms of the harbour are ideal for kayaking and paddle boarding. If you are really keen join a club e.g. The Mana Kayaking Club

Nature Photography

Whether it’s bird watching at the Pāuatahanui Inlet Nature Reserve, capturing the wonderful sunsets or the occasional harbour visits by seals and orca, there’s amazing shots to be had in and around the harbour’s arms. Find like minded photographers at the Porirua Camera Photography Club.

Power, jet boat and Waterski

While the Trust’s preference is for non-engine powered vessels in the harbour we know that boaties are drawn to our waters as well. The Wellington Jet Sport Club is based off Grays Road and the Wellington Power Boat club hosts regattas on the Parumoana (Onepoto) arm. Also at Onepoto is the Titahi Bay Boating Club. The Mana Cruising Club and Plimmerton Boating Club are the gateway to both coastal waters and Te Moana o Raukawa (Cook Strait) for many boating enthusiasts.

Sailing

Looking for somewhere that can teach your children where to be sailors. Look no further than the Paremata Boating Club, they’ve been around for over 100 years on the Inlet. Or maybe you are looking for an inclusive sailing club for people with disabilities. Sailability Wellington has a base at Onepoto.

Waka Ama

The Porirua Harbour is a mecca for Waka Ama with no fewer than four clubs: Toa Waka Ama Club, Hawaikinui Tuarua Waka Ama Club,Mana Pasifika Outrigger Canoe Club,Porirua Canoe Kayak Club Inc.

Walking

While the railway and roads make access to some of the foreshore difficult there are plenty of walking tracks around the rest of the twin arms of the estuaries to satisfy ardent or casual walkers: Please remember to pick up your dog’s do-dos to help keep the water clean.

Wind and Kite surfing

Whitireia Bay in the outer harbour is renowned for kite surfing. The world record for a jump of 36.7 metres was set in September 2024. Wind Surfing beginners are known to practice in the Inlet off the carpark beach at Motukaraka Point.