Manukau Heads Historic Lighthouse
759 Manukau Heads Road, Manukau Heads 2684, New Zealand
Name and Location
The Manukau Heads Historic Lighthouse is a significant maritime landmark located on the southern coast of Auckland, New Zealand.
Construction and History
Built in 1885, this iconic lighthouse has played a crucial role in guiding mariners through the treacherous waters of Manukau Heads. Its history dates back to the late 19th century when it was constructed using local materials.
Architecture and Materials
The lighthouse stands at an elevation of 234 meters (768 feet) above sea level, making it one of the tallest structures in the area. Its architectural style is characterized by a distinctive tower with a red-and-white striped design, which has become synonymous with the region's maritime heritage. The structure features a unique octagonal shape, adding to its visual appeal.
Light and Navigation
The Manukau Heads Historic Lighthouse is equipped with two lights that operate in a specific pattern. The primary light emits a white beam every 6 seconds, covering a range of 12 nautical miles (22 kilometers) with a sector from 28 degrees to 130 degrees. The secondary light has similar characteristics but operates in a different sequence.
Accessibility and Visiting
Visitors can access the lighthouse through a well-maintained pathway that leads from Manukau Heads Road. The site is open to the public, offering stunning views of the surrounding coastline and the Pacific Ocean.
Notable Views and Landscape
The lighthouse is situated within a scenic coastal area, surrounded by rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and sandy beaches. The site offers excellent vantage points for observing marine life, including dolphins, whales, and seabirds.
Technical and Operational Details
While the Manukau Heads Historic Lighthouse no longer serves as an active aid to navigation, it has been preserved and maintained by the New Zealand Coastguard Authority. Visitors can explore the site and learn about its rich history through interactive exhibits and guided tours.
Further Information
- LINZ (Land Information New Zealand). (2022). Manukau Heads Historic Lighthouse. Retrieved from <https://www.linz.govt.nz/data/new-zealand-chart-no-3/feature-way/1075444104>
- Auckland Council. (n.d.). Manukau Heads Historic Lighthouse. Retrieved from <https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/enjoy/places-to-visit/manukau-heads-historic-lighthouse/Pages/default.aspx>
Details
| Name | Manukau Heads Historic Lighthouse |
|---|---|
| City | |
| Country | New Zealand |
| Coordinates | -37.0506289, 174.5457 |
| Year of construction | 1885 |
| Events | shipwrecks, rescues |
| Historic significance | significant maritime landmark and a testament to the region's rich history |
| Architectural style | octagonal shape with red-and-white striped design |
| Construction material | local materials |
| Focal height | 768 |
| Tower height | 234 |
| Heritage status | true |
| Access description | by car, footpath |
| Accessible | true |
| Landscape type | rocky coast, dunes, island |
| View description | stunning views of the surrounding coastline and the Pacific Ocean |
| Guided tours | true |
| Facilities | toilets, gift shop |
| AIS Radar | true |
| Light characteristic | two lights with specific pattern, primary light emits white beam every 6 seconds |
| Light range | 12 |
| Automated | false |