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Tutukākā Lighthouse

9GQW+9F Tutukaka, Northland Region, New Zealand

Name and Location

The Tutukākā Lighthouse is located in the picturesque Northland Region of New Zealand, standing sentinel over the coastal waters of Tutukākā Harbour.

Construction and History

The Tutukākā Lighthouse was constructed during the late 19th century, with a rich history dating back to 1909. This iconic landmark has played a vital role in guiding mariners and providing a beacon for those navigating the treacherous coastline.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse's architectural style is reminiscent of traditional New Zealand coastal structures, featuring a sturdy design capable of withstanding the region's harsh weather conditions. The structure stands at approximately 92 feet (28 meters) above sea level.

Light and Navigation

The Tutukākā Lighthouse is equipped with two distinct light sources: a primary white flashing light emitted at an elevation of 92 feet above sea level, visible for a range of approximately 14 nautical miles; and a secondary white flashing light, obscured from view due to its proximity to the primary light source.

Accessibility and Visiting

The lighthouse has undergone automation in recent years, ensuring continuous operation with minimal human intervention. Visitors can access the site via the Tutukākā Head tracks, with guided tours available upon request. Please note that the lighthouse may be closed or restricted during certain periods due to maintenance or conservation efforts.

Notable Views and Landscape

The area surrounding the lighthouse is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including birds, seals, and dolphins. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks, fishing, or simply taking in the breathtaking views of the harbour and coastline.

Anecdotes and Folklore

N/A

Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse has undergone automation in recent years, ensuring continuous operation with minimal human intervention.

Further Information

Note: The lighthouse is managed by the Whangarei District Council, with assistance from local authorities and conservation organizations.

Details

NameTutukākā Lighthouse
City
CountryNew Zealand
Coordinates-35.6115838, 174.5461961
Year of construction1909
Eventsnotable events such as shipwrecks or rescues
Historic significancevital role in guiding mariners and providing a beacon for those navigating the treacherous coastline
Keeper storiesquotes from former lighthouse keepers
Storieslegendary stories about former lighthouse keepers
Architectural styletraditional New Zealand coastal structures
Focal height92
Tower height28
Heritage statustrue
Renovationsautomation in recent years
Access descriptionvia Tutukākā Head tracks, guided tours available
Accessibletrue
Landscape typerocky coast, dunes
View descriptionlush native forests and rugged coastline
Guided tourstrue
Facilitiestoilets, café, gift shop
Opening hoursdaylight hours, check with management for specific times
Nearby attractions["Tutukākā Harbour","Whangarei Heads Coastal Walkway"]
AIS Radarfalse
Light characteristic["Fl (3) W 15s","Fl (3) W 10s"]
Light range14
Automatedtrue