Name and Location

The Cape Egmont Lighthouse stands tall at 33 meters (108 feet) above sea level on the western coast of New Zealand's North Island, located at coordinates -39.2762407, 173.7549924 (lat, long) in the Taranaki Region.

Construction and History

The Cape Egmont Lighthouse was constructed in 1862 during the era of European settlement in New Zealand. The tower's design reflects the architectural style of its time, featuring a distinctive white-painted structure with a red roof and a lantern room at the top. Initially lit by a kerosene lamp, it was later converted to use electricity in the early 20th century.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse is a white-painted structure with a red roof and a lantern room at the top.

Light and Navigation

The lighthouse's original light characteristic is a flashing white beam with a range of 19 nautical miles. It was originally operated manually but was automated in the early 20th century. For navigation purposes, mariners can refer to chart numbers 204768, 3606908, and 3731015 (source: LINZ; Cape Egmont to Rangitikei River Chart).

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the lighthouse via Cape Road in Pungarehu, Taranaki Region. Although the lighthouse is no longer operational, visitors can still explore the site and take in the stunning views of the surrounding coastline. Guided tours are available upon request.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse stands atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the Tasman Sea, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding coastline. The area is also home to a variety of marine life, including seals and seabirds.

Anecdotes and Folklore

One notable event occurred on October 3, 1885, when a shipwreck off the coast of Cape Egmont led to the rescue efforts involving multiple vessels and personnel from nearby coastal towns. While no specific folklore or anecdotes are documented for the Cape Egmont Lighthouse, it is believed that the lighthouse has played a crucial role in maritime history and continues to be an important landmark for locals and visitors alike.

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse was initially lit by a kerosene lamp but was later converted to use electricity in the early 20th century. The light characteristic is a flashing white beam with a range of 19 nautical miles.

Further Information

Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga has listed the Cape Egmont Lighthouse as a Category I heritage building since 1982 (Reference: NZHPT Register). For further information, visit Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga or consult chart numbers 204768, 3606908, and 3731015 (source: LINZ; Cape Egmont to Rangitikei River Chart).