Name and Location

Cape Reinga Lighthouse is located in the Northland Region of New Zealand.

2. Construction and History

The Cape Reinga Lighthouse was constructed in 1889 to guide mariners safely through the treacherous waters of the East Cape. It has been a vital aid to navigation for ships traveling along the East Coast of New Zealand since its inception.

3. Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse is a cylindrical structure built from stone and concrete, with a distinctive white tower that rises above the surrounding landscape. Its architectural style can be classified as Victorian-era, characteristic of many lighthouses built during this period.

4. Light and Navigation

The lighthouse's light emits a Fl (3) W 15s pattern, flashing three times every 12 seconds. This unique pattern is designed to help mariners identify the light in low-visibility conditions. Originally a manually operated lighthouse, Cape Reinga was automated in 1986 to reduce maintenance costs and improve efficiency.

5. Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the lighthouse through a well-maintained walking track that begins at Timber Trail, approximately 1.5 kilometers away from the lighthouse. The trek takes about 20-30 minutes, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the coastline.

6. Notable Views and Landscape

From the vantage point of the lighthouse, visitors can take in the breathtaking views of the East Coast, with the Twin Cape Islands visible on a clear day. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and lush native vegetation.

7. Anecdotes and Folklore

One notable anecdote about the lighthouse is its association with the famous Twin Cape Islands, which are believed to be the final resting place of many Maori warriors who sailed from these shores to fight in battles across the Pacific. This rich cultural heritage is reflected in the lighthouse's architecture and the surrounding landscape.

8. Technical and Operational Details

The Cape Reinga Lighthouse stands tall at an impressive height of 165 feet (50 meters). The light can still be seen for 19 nautical miles (35 kilometers), serving as a vital aid to navigation for ships traveling along the East Coast of New Zealand.

9. Further Information

For further reading, please refer to the Wikipedia article on Cape Reinga Lighthouse, which provides a comprehensive overview of this iconic landmark. The Cape Reinga Lighthouse is managed by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, which ensures its preservation and maintenance for future generations.