10 Lonely Lighthouses To Visit In North Island, New Zealand

Exploring the coastline of the North Island of New Zealand can offer scenic views, windy walks and lonely lighthouses.

To me, there is something intriguing about lighthouses. The lone beacons, rising majestically from the cliffside, often alone and subject to the rough wind and waves of life beside the sea. Lighthouses are romantic, secluded and in beautiful locations, yet they are isolated and the conditions can be tough.

These days, lighthouses across the North Island of New Zealand, like many places around the world, are operated remotely. But the history of the lighthouse keepers is from not so long ago. Many of the lighthouse keepers cottages remain and you can even stay overnight in some of them!

Being an island nation, lighthouses are an important part of New Zealand’s history. Each lighthouse has its own story, enchanting visitors who venture out to visit them in their lonely locations.

Here is a journey across the North Island to my favourite iconic lighthouses to visit in this part of New Zealand.

1. Cape Reinga Lighthouse, Northland

Right at the northern tip of the North Island is the Cape Reinga Lighthouse. The lighthouse has become an iconic symbol of New Zealand, and the location is the most significant for Maori. A visit to Cape Reinga Lighthouse is one of my unmissable experiences in the North Island.

For many visitors to New Zealand, Cape Reinga Lighthouse offers the opportunity to visit one of the most northern places in the country (the actual northernmost place is further east of Cape Reinga, and is pretty hard to get to!)

I visited Cape Reinga Lighthouse twice during my travels in New Zealand. Each time I felt completely at peace and awe from the location and the iconic lighthouse.

The views from Cape Reinga are spectacular. The lighthouse looks out across the waters at the “meeting of the seas” – where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. It is amazing to see the currents of the two waters crashing into each other.

To get to Cape Reinga, keep driving north on State Highway 1 as far as it will go! The walk to the Cape Reinga lighthouse is 15-minutes from the parking area.

Te Aroha – An 800 Year Old Pohutukawa Tree – Maori’s Gateway To The Underworld

Cape Reinga Lighthouse is also the site of the Te Aroha, an 800-year old pohutukawa tree.The small, wind-beaten tree is clinging to the cliffs near to the lighthouse.

The tree is of significant importance in Maori legend, which says that after death, all Maori spirits travel up the coast to the tree. The spirits descend into the underworld (reinga) through the tree’s roots into the sea below.

History Of Cape Reinga Lighthouse – The Last Lighthouse To Be Built In New Zealand

The lighthouse at Cape Reinga was positioned there in 1941 and was the last lighthouse to be built in New Zealand. The tower height is 10m.

The lighthouse keeper was withdrawn in 1987, and the light today is electric, charged by solar panels, and managed remotely from Wellington (Maritime NZ).

The signal warning can be seen 49 km out to sea and is often the first light in New Zealand that sailors see.

Beautiful Beach Camping 5-Minutes Drive From Cape Reinga Lighthouse

We stayed at the Tapotupotu Bay camping ground (Google Maps), a lovely campsite beside the sea and a 5-minute drive from Cape Reinga Lighthouse. The campsite is managed by DOC and is $16 per person per night. There are toilets, cold showers and non-powered tent/camper vehicle sites.

2. Cape Brett Lighthouse, Northland

The Cape Brett Lighthouse is extremely remote and is the loneliest lighthouse in the North Island.  It is situated at the end of a peninsula in the Bay of Islands. The lighthouse at Cape Brett is best accessed by walking or by boat.

Accessing Cape Brett Lighthouse can be done via a challenging 16 km (8 hrs) hiking trail along the Cape Brett Track (DOC) from Oke Bay in Rawhiti. The walk has stunning coastal views and native bush landscapes. A walking permit is required from DOC to do this walk.

Typically hikers will take 2 days to do this walk, staying overnight at the Cape Brett Hut. For photos and more information on the Cape Brett Track from someone who has done it, check out this blog post from Tristan Balme.

Alternatively the lighthouse can be accessed by boat from Deep Water Cove – a lovely beach suitable for swimming and snorkelling. From the cove, the walk is 4.4 km (2.5 hrs) and it is challenging, exposed and steep. You can also go ashore at the Cape Brett Landing below the hut (35-minute taxi). Water taxis are available in Russell, Paihia and Rawhiti.

History Of Cape Brett Lighthouse

It was one of the first lighthouses to guide ships through the waters in the Bay of Islands and was constructed in 1910.

The lighthouse was automated in 1978.

In 2009, the Cape Brett Lighthouse station was added to Heritage New Zealand’s list of historic places.

Stay At The Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage At Cape Brett Lighthouse (Cape Brett Hut)

Accommodation is available overnight in the former lighthouse keeper’s cottage, now called Cape Brett Hut (DOC). Staying overnight at the hut will give a glimpse into the maritime history of the lighthouse. Bookings for the hut are mandatory and there are 23 bunk beds, drinking water and gas cooking units at the serviced DOC hut.

3. Manukau Heads Lighthouse, Auckland Region

Overlooking the entrance to Auckland’s Manukau Harbour is the Manukau Heads Lighthouse. 

Manukau Heads Lighthouse is one of the few lighthouses in New Zealand that is open to the public. You can climb 125 steps to get to the lighthouse. Once inside the lighthouse, by climbing 23 interior steps you can reach the viewing platform. From the platform you can get beautiful panoramic views of the area and across the water to Waitakere Ranges Regional Park.

The lighthouse was originally built in 1874 and made from wood. The present day lighthouse is a replica of the original design and was built in 2006. Today, the Manukau Heads Lighthouse is operated and managed by a trust.

Usually the Manukau Heads Lighthouse can be accessed by car, taking 1.5 hrs (102 km) from Auckland city. Unfortunately the Manukau Heads Lighthouse is currently inaccessible due to landslide damage on Manukau Heads Road from Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023 (photos available on Stuff). 

Freedom Camping At Hamilton’s Gap, Near Manukau Heads Lighthouse

We stayed at the Hamilton’s Gap freedom campsite (Google Maps), 19 km (27-minute drive) from the Manukau Heads Lighthouse. It is a very basic site with just grassy fields to park in.

There are toilets and a cold shower. 4G mobile phone signal is good from the campsite.

The location at Hamilton’s Gap is very scenic and there is direct access to the wild, black sand beach – great for walks and views of the impressive sandstone cliffs and enormous sand dunes.

4. East Cape Lighthouse, Gisborne Region

Standing atop Otiki Hill at the easternmost point of the North Island is East Cape Lighthouse. The scenic East Cape Lighthouse is among the first structures to greet the sunrise each day. 

To visit the East Cape Lighthouse, you must drive along the Pacific Coast Highway (State Highway 35) to the small settlement of Te Araroa. Te Araroa has the oldest and largest pohutukawa tree in New Zealand, which is worth a look.

From Te Araroa, take the East Cape Road which closely hugs the coastline. The East Cape Road is a remote road and it is not not well-maintained. The majority of the road is sealed, however parts are unsealed and as it is very close to the ocean it is in danger of being completely eroded! There is nothing along the road besides the occasional farm building. The road ends at the small car park and a farm house located below the lighthouse.

Climb 800+ Wooden Steps Through Bushland To Reach East Cape Lighthouse

From the car park, there is a track that leads up the hill through native bushland to the lighthouse. The track is made from wooden steps and there are around 800 steps to climb. There are handrails you can use for support. Otherwise the steps are steep and eroded in parts. 

When Fiachra and I visited the East Cape Lighthouse in May 2021, the weather was raining and the track was slippery and muddy.

The views from the lighthouse are great, as you can see across the sea and to East Island. But due to the weather, we didn’t stay long as we sought refuge from the cold and rainy weather in our campervan.

At the East Cape Lighthouse, you really feel that it is a very lonely place to be. The farm house next to the car park, the only building there, seemed to be very quiet. When we visited, we were the only people there and we didn’t see anyone else on the drive along the road or during our walk up to/down from the lighthouse.

Closure Notice: Unfortunately, due significant slips and damage in recent years, Maritime New Zealand has closed access to East Cape Lighthouse until further notice.

History Of East Cape Lighthouse

The lighthouse was originally constructed on East Island, a small hilly island just off shore of its current location, in 1900, but was relocated to the mainland in 1922 due to earthquake-induced landslides.

The lighthouse originally had three lighthouse keepers, and was fully automated in 1985 and is controlled remotely from Wellington.

Camping At East Cape Capeground, Near East Cape Lighthouse

We stayed at the East Cape Campground (Google Maps), a very basic campsite with just fields for camping vehicles/tents (unpowered), and a toilet/shower block (hot showers require $1 coins). There are also outdoor sinks. There is no rubbish/recycling at the campsite, and no wi-fi or mobile phone coverage.

The campsite costs around $15 per night in cash or can be booked online. When we visited the campsite was very new and the owners were raising money to develop the facilities.

5. Wairoa Lighthouse (Old Portland Island Lighthouse), Hawkes Bay

A charming wooden lighthouse in an unusual location, the Wairoa Lighthouse is in the middle of the Wairoa town along the Wairoa River. Of course, there is no need for a lighthouse beside a river, the lighthouse has been relocated there from its previous home.

Wairora Lighthouse Was Relocated From Portland Island

The lighthouse’s name is actually the Portland Island Lighthouse. It was positioned on Portland Island, located off the tip of the Mahia Peninsula near Wairoa, for 77 years, from 1878 to 1955. 

In 1955 it was replaced by an electric tower and the lighthouse was going to be dismantled and disposed of. However, the Mayor of Wairoa District saw the potential of the lighthouse to be a tourist attraction and historic monument, and saved the lighthouse.

In 1959 the lighthouse was transported and positioned in its new home in Wairoa.

Now, the Wairoa Lighthouse serves as a historical monument and symbolises the town’s maritime heritage.

See Wairoa Lighthouse Light Up At Night!

You can enjoy viewing the lighthouse during the day or at night when it lights up and shows a beacon of light just like it would if it was beside the sea!

It is quite bizarre and cool to see a lighthouse in a town, especially showing its light at night!

The Wairoa Old Portland Island Lighthouse is a cute addition to the town and gives picturesque views along the Wairoa Riverside Walkway. I love the design of this lighthouse, with its wooden white and red colour scheme and the pretty copper dome.

Freedom Camping Near Wairoa Lighthouse

We stayed at two freedom campsites during our visit to Wairoa.

For the first night we stayed at the Wairoa War Memorial Park freedom camping area in our campervan. This freedom camping is located on the other side of the Wairoa River to the Old Portland Island Lighthouse. There are no facilities here so you need to be self-contained.

The second night we stayed at the Clyde Court car park freedom camping. There are public toilets at Clyde Court car park and it is next to the New World supermarket. Vehicles can be self-contained and non-self-contained.

Wairoa District Council has a good website about freedom camping in the district.

6. Cape Egmont Lighthouse, Taranaki

Mount Taranaki is one of the most impressive mountains in New Zealand. The pyramid shaped, formant stratovolcano dominates the landscape of the western coast of the North Island. The mountain looks stunning from every angle, and if you head to the most western-point of the Taranaki coast, Mount Taranaki can be viewed in the frame with Cape Egmont Lighthouse.

The pretty red and white lighthouse is situated on a small mound, with Mount Taranaki in the background. The views of both the lighthouse and the mountain are very picturesque, and makes it worth the trip despite there being not much else to do in this part of the North Island.

To reach Cape Egmont Lighthouse, take Cape Rd west heading toward the coast, from State Highway 45, also known as Surf Highway. The lighthouse is at the end of the road, where there is a small parking/turning around area. The lighthouse is a great photo spot to admire the views of Mount Taranaki and the ocean.

History Of Cape Egmont Lighthouse – From The UK, To Wellington, To Taranaki

The historic lighthouse was actually built in London, UK, and shipped to New Zealand in 1865. It used to stand on Mana Island, north of Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city. However, this spot was not great as it caused confusion with another nearby lighthouse and caused a few shipping accidents. Therefore, the lighthouse was moved to Cape Egmont in 1877.

The lighthouse didn’t make its way to its new home easily, as protesting residents at the Maori settlement of Parihaka delayed the rebuilding of the lighthouse. An armed constabulary was stationed to ensure its completion and remained for the first 6 months in the ground floor of the lighthouse.

In 1951 Cape Egmont Lighthouse was electrified. Due to staff shortages in the 1950s, the lighthouse for a time had no keeper. In 1956, the vessel Calm grounded off Cape Egmont during a storm. Following an inquiry into the incident,  a keeper was reinstated. In 1986 the light was automated. Like many other lighthouses, it is operated remotely from the Maritime NZ office in Wellington.

Freedom Camping At Opunake, Near Cape Egmont Lighthouse

We stayed at the Opunake Lake freedom camping spot (Google Maps) for the night in our campervan. There is a public toilet there and it is beside a small lake in a residential area. It was a good spot to stay during our Surf Highway/State Highway 45 road trip, exploring the Taranaki coast!

Freedom camping is permitted at the Opunake Lake for self-contained vehicles, non-self-contained vehicles and tents.

More information can be found on the South Taranaki District Council freedom camping page about where it is permitted in the district.

7. Castlepoint Lighthouse, Wairarapa

My second favourite lighthouse to visit in the North Island (after Cape Reinga) is the Castlepoint Lighthouse. Located at the other end of the North Island, in the Wairarapa Region, the Castlepoint Lighthouse is simply set in a stunningly beautiful coastal area, which makes it well worth the visit.

I loved my visit to Castlepoint Lighthouse, and was blown away by the beauty and interesting ecology and geology of the place.

The wide sandy beach, large sand dunes, lagoon, reef, fossils and interesting shaped rocks all form an amazing landscape, with the Castlepoint Lighthouse and Castle Rock as the focal points at either end of the reef.

Castlepoint Scenic Reserve – Wildlife & Endemic Daisy

The area is the Castlepoint Scenic Reserve, which is also a hotspot for wildlife, including dolphins, seals, and many kinds of birds.

As for flora, an endemic daisy, (brachyglottis compacta) is only found in this place in the whole world, growing on the limestone reef and the rocks.

The drive to Castlepoint is only 60-minutes from Masterton along the Masterton-Castlepoint Rd. The road is sealed the whole way and the views are scenic. At the end of the road, there is a free car park with public toilets.

Once you get to the Castlepoint Scenic Reserve, there are lots of cool things to do, such as swimming, surfing and exploring.

Enjoy Beautiful, Easy Walks At Castlepoint Lighthouse

My favourite was to take the walk to the Castlepoint Lighthouse along the boardwalk. It is an easy walk that takes 30-minutes out and back, but you’ll be longer enjoying the amazing views and taking pictures!

Another beautiful walk is the Deliverance Cove Track, which follows the curve of the bay and ends at the base of Castle Rock. This walk takes 1.5 hrs return.

History Of Castlepoint Lighthouse

The lighthouse was built in 1913 and was one of the last staff lights in New Zealand. Perhaps because it was one of the few lighthouses with a small township nearby and easy access to facilities including a school, hotel and store.

Originally the lighthouse was fueled by kerosene, then powered by a diesel generator from 1954. In 1961 it was connected to the main grid.

In 1988 the lighthouse was automated and is operated remotely from Wellington.

Fun Facts about Castlepoint Lighthouse!

1. Captain Cook named Castlepoint on his visit to New Zealand in 1770. He thought that Castle Rock looked like the battlements of a castle!

2. Castlepoint Lighthouse is the only lighthouse to be built by the unusual method of seven 3-metre high rings of iron sheets riveted together.

3. Castlepoint is the North Island’s tallest lighthouse!

4. You can watch a live stream via webcam of the Castlepoint Lighthouse here! The quality of the feed is excellent and you can even hear the sound of the waves! How amazing to be able to transport yourself to New Zealand for a moment in time! 😍

Best Camping Options Near Castlepoint Lighthouse

The car park next to the Castlepoint Scenic Reserve is a freedom camping site for self-contained vehicles. You can stay for 4 nights in a month, between 5pm and 9am each night, between 1st November and 30th April. Outside of these months the hours are not restricted. You can see a freedom camping map here.

We stayed in Masterton which is a 60-minute drive from Castlepoint. We had a camping site at the Mawley Holiday Park for several nights. It is a great campsite with reasonable prices (around $40 per night for 2 people in an unpowered site). The campsite is well-maintained and is walking distance to Masterton town centre.

8. Cape Palliser Lighthouse, Wairarapa

My visit to Cape Palliser Lighthouse was a bit of an afterthought. I’d driven all the way to the remote region in the North Island of the southern Wairarapa to visit the Putangirua Pinnacles. 

Putangirua Pinnacles

Similar to the Clay Cliffs near Omarama in the South Island, the pinnacles are amazing natural formations of erosion forming badlands. 

The Putangirua Pinnacles have been used as a film location for many productions including the Lord of the Rings: the Return of the King.

The location is beautiful to explore, and it takes a couple of hours to enjoy.

Closure Notice: Unfortunately due to a large landslide near the car park the Putangirua Pinnacles Track has been closed since February 2023 by the Department of Conservation due to safety concerns.

Combined with the 1.5 hour drive to reach the pinnacles from Masterton, much of the day had been done by the time I was ready to visit the lighthouse.

Upon leaving the Putangirua Pinnacles car park, we saw a hitchhiker holding a sign asking to be taken to the lighthouse. The end of the day was fast approaching. It was the golden hour, and so the sun was nearing time to set. We were one of the last vehicles to leave the car park, and we felt if we left without taking the hitchhiker with us, he may be stuck there for the night. As we were also heading to the lighthouse and then back to Masterton, we offered to take him with us and drop him off wherever he needed. He gratefully accepted and climbed into our van!

Our hitchhiker was from Japan and was taking a trip hitchhiking all over New Zealand. He had amazing stories after taking journeys with all kinds of people already so far. Our adventure to the lighthouse was the next in his story!

The Journey To Cape Palliser Lighthouse Is Along A Narrow, Winding Road – Home To A Large Fur Seal Colony

The journey to the Cape Palliser Lighthouse is long and windy. The road follows the coastline right down to the most southern tip of the North island, where the lighthouse is located. The road is sealed most of the way, until the final sections.

As the night was upon us, and the mountainous landscape blocking the setting sun, it began to get dark very quickly. The weather was also very windy and raining all of a sudden, making visibility difficult.

The road hugs the coastline so tightly that the roaring waves even crashed onto the road.

As night fell, we saw many baby seals scuttling about, between the bushes on the roadside. They were incredibly cute! The Cape Palliser area has one of the largest fur seal colonies in New Zealand.

After the 30-minute drive from the pinnacles, we finally reached the lighthouse. By the time we got there, it was completely dark. All we could see was the illuminated beam of the lighthouse, rotating and lighting up the surroundings in consistent flashes. There was nothing but the shadows of mountains, trees, rocks and the sound of the crashing waves.

There is a small gravel car park located near the base of the lighthouse, which is perched on a small hill. We got out of the car and headed towards the structure.

Climb 250+ Steep, Wooden Steps To Reach The Lighthouse

We discovered access to the lighthouse is up a long and steep set of narrow, wooden stairs. We climbed the 250+ steps, but we all felt apprehensive about the adventure in the dark, armed only with our headlamps.

Reaching the base of the red and white striped lighthouse, we could see its beams illuminating across the dark ocean. There is a solid platform perfect for admiring the views.

It was very cool to see the lighthouse in action, in this incredibly remote location. We were the only people there, so it felt a little eerie to be there in the dark. I wondered what it would be like during daylight.

We did not stay long, due to the wind and the rain, but we were glad we made it to the lighthouse after traveling all that way!

History Of Cape Palliser Lighthouse – One Of The Loneliest Lighthouses

Life for lighthouse keepers at Cape Palliser was difficult, due to the remoteness and rudimentary access via dirt tracks before there was a road. Stormy weather also added to the isolation.

Originally the lighthouse was lit using oil. In 1967 it was connected to mains electricity, with a generator closeby for emergencies. The keepers were withdrawn in 1986 when the light was automated.

Cape Palliser Lighthouse is still fitted with the original lens, installed in 1897 when the lighthouse was built.

The positioning of the lighthouse was important, as the rugged Cape was notorious for shipwrecks.

The red and white stripes are unique to Cape Palliser Lighthouse, and the color scheme and pattern is to help it to standout against the rocks.

Camping At Putangirua Pinnacles, Near Cape Palliser Lighthouse

The Department of Conservation operates a campsite at the Putangirua Pinnacles Scenic Reserve.

The campsite is open despite the walking tracks being closed.

You do not need to make a booking and there are 50 non-powered/tent sites. It costs $10 per adult per night. You can pay with cash at the self-registration stand at the campsite (honesty box).

For more information visit the DOC website here.

9. Baring Head Lighthouse, Wellington Region

Baring Head Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse, located on the southern coast of the North Island near Wellington. The drive to the lighthouse from Wellington city is around 45-minutes (41 km).

Baring Head Lighthouse was one of the last major lighthouses to be built in New Zealand. Building started in 1934 and the lighthouse was first lit in 1935.

Baring Head Lighthouse Guided Ships In The Cook Strait – Dangerous Waters Between The North & South Islands

The lighthouse improved maritime safety along the Cook Strait. The strait is a notoriously treacherous stretch of water, separating the North and South Islands of New Zealand.

Originally the lighthouse had a keeper until being fully automated in 1989 and managed remotely from Wellington.

The lighthouse still plays a crucial role in guiding ships today in the Cook Strait, known for its strong winds and unpredictable conditions. The site of the lighthouse also has a meteorological station that collects weather data.

East Harbour Regional Park – Walking Trails & Wildlife

The lighthouse stands on a high cliff and offers stunning views of the rugged coastline, farmland, and hilly landscape. Today, Baring Head Lighthouse is part of the East Harbour Regional Park.

There are scenic walking trails and diverse wildlife, making a visit to the lighthouse popular with hikers and nature enthusiasts.

A visit to Baring Head Lighthouse will reward you with stunning coastal views, beaches and river picnic spots!

There are composting toilets at the car park at the start of the walk to the lighthouse. The trail is 1.7 km one way and takes approximately 1 hour, so allow at least 2 hours to get there and back. See the trail map here.

Stay At The Assistant Lighthouse Keeper’s House At Baring Head Lighthouse

The old Assistant Lighthouse Keepers house has been restored and modernised into an AirBnB. The little house is located right next to the Baring Head Lighthouse. It looks really gorgeous and the views across Wainuiomata Beach are beautiful with its turquoise waters.

10. Pencarrow Lighthouse, Wellington Region

Located at the entrance to Wellington Harbour is Pencarrow Lighthouse, New Zealand’s first permanent lighthouse. It was built in 1859 to improve maritime safety for the Cook Strait.

The 11.5 m high cast iron tower was imported from England and placed on the cliffs of Pencarrow Head. In 1906 the Pencarrow Sector Light was positioned close to sea level to provide better visibility in foggy conditions. This light is still in use today.

The Pencarrow Lighthouse was eventually decommissioned in 1935 after the construction of the Baring Head Lighthouse.

New Zealand’s First & Only Female Lighthouse Keeper Managed Pencarrow Lighthouse

Pencarrow Lighthouse is historically significant as it was managed by New Zealand’s first and only female lighthouse keeper, Mary Jane Bennett, who took on the role after her husband’s death.

Today, the Pencarrow Lighthouse is a historic landmark and popular destination for hikers and cyclists exploring the coastline. The area is part of the East Harbour Regional Park and provides wonderful views and lots of wildlife, particularly birds.

Nearby is the Pencarrow Lakes which also offer walking and cycling opportunities.

The area is remote and has no road access. Access starts from Burdan’s Gate, located at the end of the Pencarrow Coast Road, south of Eastbourne. The walk to the lonely lighthouse takes around 4 hours on a round trip (14.5 km).

There is a bus from Wellington (81 or 85) going very close to the start of the walk.

Alternatively, the drive from Wellington is around 30 km and takes 1hr.

Lonely Lighthouses To Visit In North Island, New Zealand – Thanks For Reading!

New Zealand is home to some of the most scenic and historic lighthouses in the world. Travelling across the North Island chasing coastal views and maritime history, these 10 lonely lighthouses offer unfortgettable experiences and unique road trip destinations. Each lighthouse tells its own story, so pack your camera, hit the highway and let these beacons guide your next adventure. – Lauren x

Where to next? Discover 30 beautiful waterfalls across the North Island 🌊

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