Exploring Island Bay's Coastal Charm
Island Bay, located in Wellington, combines its distinctive houses and a superior beach when compared to nearby Ōwhiro Bay. The area also provides easier boat access. At the forefront of the bay lies Taputeranga Island, a particularly photogenic feature. This island is central to the Taputeranga Marine Reserve, which stretches from Ōwhiro Bay to Te Raekaihau at Houghton Bay's eastern point.
Discovering Taputeranga Island
Although Taputeranga Island is just 80 metres from the shore, swimming to it is not considered safe. However, if you have access to a kayak, you can paddle around the island and explore its remarkable rock pools.
The Taputeranga Marine Reserve is governed by "no take" rules, which have significantly contributed to the area’s vibrant marine life. The rock pools around Ōwhiro, the Sirens Rocks, and Taputeranga Island are particularly colourful, showcasing a dramatic recovery in marine biodiversity since the reserve's establishment.
How to Get There
To reach Island Bay, head south from Wellington's city centre. The drive takes approximately 10 minutes (via Adelaide Road and The Parade).
Nearby, you can also visit Houghton Bay and Lyall Bay, then continue to the Miramar Peninsula, with stops at Tarakena Bay, Breaker Bay, Worser Bay and Scorching Bay.
