Our Story
It all began in 1947 when the Meo family of Island Bay set up a small fish factory right here on this site. From fresh and frozen fish to shellfish and smoked seafood, they supplied locals and sent their catch far and wide. Bluff oysters arrived in sacks, and back then they were shucked by hand into 25-dozen tins. The smell of smoked fish filled the air and became the heartbeat of the neighbourhood.
In 1979, Tony Basile joined the business and soon took over the reins. A second-generation Italian, Tony grew up in Island Bay where his father Antonino and uncle Mariano settled after leaving Sorrento, Italy, in the 1920s. They were part of the close-knit Italian fishing community that helped shape Wellington’s seafood story, and that passion for good food and hard work still runs through everything we do today.
Tony and his wife Rosina raised their five kids around Wellington Seamarket. The shop was their second home, filled with the smell of fresh fish, the sound of laughter, and the occasional family debate over who had the best whitebait fritter recipe. All five kids grew up as part of the business, but Dion stuck around and has now stepped in to carry on the family legacy.
Over the years, tastes have changed and so have we. From whole fish and traditional cuts to fresh fillets ready for the pan, our team has always focused on bringing the best of the sea to the people of Wellington.
In 2000 we opened the doors to our Cuba Street shop, bringing that same Italian passion for food and family to the heart of the city. Today, Wellington Seamarket also has stores on Lambton Quay and in Porirua. We still source our fish from trusted local fishermen, many of whom have supplied us for decades, and we are proud to keep serving fresh, beautiful seafood to our community and beyond.
Because around here, good food is not just business, it is family.
Store locations
For over 20 years our flagship store on Cuba Street has prided itself on fresh fish landing daily, experienced staff and quality products. Whether it’s classic Fish n Chips, or recommendations on seafood options or cooking tips, we have you covered!
Store Hours
Monday – Tuesday
8:00am - 8:00pm
Wednesday – Thursday
8:00am - 8:30pm
Friday – Sunday
8:00am -9:00pm
Nestled in the heart of the CBD, the Lambton Quay shop is the perfect for while you’re out and about. Fresh fish landing daily and classic Fish n Chips. The team are exceptionaly knowledgeable about seafood and arealways up for a chat, especially Salvi!
Store Hours
Monday – Thursday
8:00am - 6:00pm
Friday
8:00am - 7:00pm
Saturday & Sunday
Closed
Wellington Seamarket Lower Hutt is a unique shop. Stocked full of a wide range of fresh whole fish, Lee and his team cut and prepare the fish to your liking right in front of you. Can’t get more fresh than that! This is a great opportunity to try one of your favourite fish is a different style.
Store Hours
Fresh Fish Store Hours
Sunday – Friday
9:00am - 5:30pm
Saturday
8:30am - 5:30pm
Fish and Chip Store Hours
Monday
Closed
Sunday – Wednesday
11:00am - 7:30pm
Saturday
11:00am - 8:00pm
