Petone Beach — Attraction in North Island

Located at the northern edge of Wellington Harbour, Petone Beach is a beloved local treasure that charms visitors with its understated beauty and rich historical roots. Stretching long and flat, this accessible shoreline offers a peaceful retreat for walkers, swimmers, and history buffs alike.

The beach’s unspoiled, barren landscape is softened by stunning views of Wellington Harbour, where sunrises and sunsets paint the sky in hues of gold and pink. Though lifeguards aren’t present, the gentle waters are generally safe for swimming, making it a favorite spot for families and casual paddlers.

Petone Beach caters to all, including four-legged friends! Designated dog exercise areas west of Petone Wharf and at the far eastern end ensure furry companions can romp freely.

Sadly, the iconic Petone Wharf—a historic landmark—remains closed due to earthquake risks, casting uncertainty over its future. Yet, the beach’s other features shine brightly.

Amenities like toilets, changing rooms, and ample parking make visits hassle-free, while the adjacent park invites picnics and relaxation.

A short stroll leads to the Settlers Museum, where the story of Petone’s founding unfolds, and a local dairy offers ice cream or coffee for a quick treat.

Steeped in history, Petone holds the distinction of being Wellington’s first European settlement. The arrival of the Aurora on January 22, 1840, marked the beginning of a new chapter, and remnants of this heritage linger in preserved buildings and...

Last time I visited this beach it was clear and cleaned. Years later they have allowed beach grass to grow along the length of it, for so called wildlife. No need for the whole beach to be turned into a wilderness with driftwood and no walkway boardwalks built to gain access so you don't have to walk across the habitat. I think sadly they aren't serious, but it's just an cost saving exercise not to keep the beach clean using conservation as the excuse. Ridiculous signage not allowing dogs between 6am thru 8pm on the beach which everyone just ignores for good reason. Come on get your act together. It's a popular beach for walking and dog walkers and families.. I lived by the beach 20 years ago & it was always kept clean and well groomed by Council. I was surprised now how it's far more popular these days even during in the winter evenings than it was before but the beach when high tide has very limited access now. With the sand to the top of the sea wall, the waves of storm serge will come right over to the road & housing and the wall won't be able to protect. Come on Council get your...

PB appeals greatly to the public because it is a pretty, safe, sandy beach stretching along the entire length of the Petone suburb on the seaward side, from Seaview to the Wellington Waterski Club (on Honiana Te Puni Reserve) close to the Esplanade exit into State Highway 2. It is highly accessible from Petone Esplanade for both pedestrians and boating enthusiasts with cycle trails and good carparking along most of its length. Public facilities such as open BBQs, toilets, "tool-kits" for dog-walkers are also present.

On fine days PB offers sweeping harbour vistas with the Wellington skyline clearly visible by day and sparkling by night. Sunset lovers will also enjoy Apollo's golden display as he sinks behind the Western hills. PB has its share of wild, stormy weather, but that's not an obstacle for beach-lovers. In fact you'll still find plenty of foot traffic including 4-legged ones enjoying exhilarating gale-storms, the very same ones which crash against the stone-walls in the dog-zone area and strew the beach with rafts of driftwood-trees as if they...