Tucked into the sheltered inlet of Omaha Cove, this working wharf is where local commercial boats bring in their daily snapper catch to supply Leigh Fisheries alongside families and recreational fishers trying their luck off the edge. Visitors come down to watch the fishing vessels unload, launch trailer boats from the adjoining ramp between mid and high tide, or spot marine life in the clear harbour waters, where bronze whaler sharks and large stingrays occasionally glide right past the pilings. Many pick up takeaway fish and chips in the village above to eat while taking in the calm harbour scenery.
Reaching the wharf involves following Hauraki Road down to the water in Leigh, or taking the walking track off Ferndale Avenue. The access road is narrow without footpaths, requiring care around pedestrians and oncoming traffic, and vehicle parking at the bottom is limited, especially during busy summer months. Our pick in Leigh for seeing a genuine working fishing harbour in action with a parcel of fish and chips.