Akaroa Lighthouse

The Akaroa Lighthouse is situated on Beach Road, overlooking the sheltered harbour of Akaroa, New Zealand.

History

• The lighthouse was constructed to serve as a navigational aid for mariners entering the harbour.
• Its construction year and history are closely tied to the development of the area.

The lighthouse was constructed to serve as a navigational aid for mariners entering the harbour. Its construction year and history are closely tied to the development of the area.

Architecture

• The Akaroa Lighthouse stands at a height of 8.5 metres (27.9 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of approximately 12 metres (39.4 feet).
• The lighthouse is made from wood, reflecting its traditional construction material in maritime structures.

The Akaroa Lighthouse stands at a height of 8.5 metres (27.9 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of approximately 12 metres (39.4 feet). The lighthouse is made from wood, reflecting its traditional construction material in maritime structures.

Light Characteristics

• The Akaroa Lighthouse emits two distinct light patterns: one green with a range of 2 nautical miles (3.7 km) and another red with the same range.
• The light characteristics include an Iso character, indicating that it is a fixed light source, and specific sector angles for each colour.

The Akaroa Lighthouse emits two distinct light patterns: one green with a range of 2 nautical miles (3.7 km) and another red with the same range. The light characteristics include an Iso character, indicating that it is a fixed light source, and specific sector angles for each colour.

Current Status

The Akaroa Lighthouse remains an active navigational aid, although its operation has been automated over time.

It continues to serve as a vital reference point for mariners navigating the harbour.

Location and Accessibility

• Located on Beach Road in Banks Peninsula Community, New Zealand, the lighthouse is easily accessible by road from Christchurch.
• The town of Akaroa itself is situated 84 kilometres (52 miles) from Christchurch and is the terminus of State Highway 75.

Located on Beach Road in Banks Peninsula Community, New Zealand, the lighthouse is easily accessible by road from Christchurch. The town of Akaroa itself is situated 84 kilometres (52 miles) from Christchurch and is the terminus of State Highway 75.

Heritage Status

The Akaroa Lighthouse has been designated as a heritage site in New Zealand, with reference number NZLH3343.

This designation acknowledges its historical significance and importance to the country's maritime heritage.

Notable Historical Events

• While specific details regarding notable historical events are not available, it is known that the area surrounding the lighthouse was once home to an eruptive centre of the Miocene Banks Peninsula Volcano.
• The town of Akaroa itself has a rich history, with its name derived from the Kāi Tahu Māori phrase "Long Harbour", which translates to Whangaroa in standard Māori.

While specific details regarding notable historical events are not available, it is known that the area surrounding the lighthouse was once home to an eruptive centre of the Miocene Banks Peninsula Volcano. The town of Akaroa itself has a rich history, with its name derived from the Kāi Tahu Māori phrase "Long Harbour", which translates to Whangaroa in standard Māori.