Muriwai is a popular place to fish, and a dangerous one. We are not fishing experts, so this page covers what the lifesaving organisations say about safety, and leaves catch limits to the Ministry for Primary Industries.
What happened in June 2026
A man died after falling from rocks near the gannet colony (Surf Life Saving NZ, 6 June 2026). Check live beach and water status at Safeswim before you go.
The safety checklist
From Surf Life Saving NZ’s advice (June 2026):
- Only fish from rocks if you can float well. Wear a lifejacket and carry a flotation device such as a life ring or bucket.
- Check the tide, swell, weather and local hazards before you go.
- Face the ocean and watch for large waves that can knock you off the rocks.
- Do not go if the conditions look dangerous.
- Fish with others, so someone can help or call for help.
- Wear light, warm clothing and shoes with grip rather than gumboots.
- Carry a phone and call 111, asking for Police, in an emergency.
- Free lifejackets can be borrowed from Drowning Prevention Auckland Lifejacket Hubs and loan boxes at high-risk beaches.
Not near the gannet colony or Maori Bay rocks: this is where the June 2026 incident happened and the surf here is rated dangerous. Stay behind the barriers and the platforms. See Maori Bay.
Surf casting from the beach
Fishing from the sand avoids the rock-fall risk but not the rips. Do not wade out to cast, stay out of the flagged area when lifeguards are on duty, and read the beach safety page for rip advice.
Rules and licences
We did not check the current recreational fishing rules. New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries sets size and bag limits; check its rules before you keep any fish.
If you would rather not fish
Try the gannet colony or a horse trek instead, or see all things to do.
Frequently asked questions
Is rock fishing at Muriwai dangerous?
Yes. Surf Life Saving NZ reported a man died after falling from rocks near the gannet colony on 6 June 2026, and Water Safety NZ urges anglers to wear a lifejacket on rocks.
Do I need a lifejacket to fish at Muriwai?
Surf Life Saving NZ advises wearing a lifejacket and carrying a flotation device when fishing from rocks. Free lifejackets can be borrowed from Drowning Prevention Auckland hubs and loan boxes at high-risk beaches.
Can I fish from the beach at Muriwai?
Surf casting from the sand is common on west-coast beaches, but rips and swell still apply. Stay out of the flagged swimming area when it is patrolled and check the fishing rules with MPI.
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