Cape Palliser Lighthouse

The Cape Palliser Lighthouse was built in 1897 and has played a crucial role in maritime safety in New Zealand's Wellington region ever since. Originally fuelled by oil, the light was upgraded to an electric lamp powered by a local diesel generator in 1954. This was later replaced with a connection to the mains grid in 1967, although a diesel generator remains for emergency power.

Architecture

The lighthouse stands at a height of 18 metres above sea level and has a focal height of 78 metres, making it an iconic landmark on Cape Palliser. The tower is constructed from red building materials and features a distinctive striped paint scheme, along with two white lights that rotate every 20 seconds.

Light Characteristics

The light's rotation pattern consists of two flares (Fl) at different heights, with the upper flare having a range of 26 nautical miles and the lower flare having a range of 10 nautical miles. The light is designed to serve as a reserve light for nearby vessels, providing an additional layer of safety.

Current Status

The Cape Palliser Lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, managed from a control room in Wellington by Maritime New Zealand. Although fully automated since 1986, the lighthouse still retains its diesel generator for emergency power.

Location and Accessibility

Located on Cape Palliser Road in Martinborough Community, New Zealand's North Island, the lighthouse is accessible via a staircase with 258 steps leading up to the base of the tower. The surrounding area offers stunning views of the coastline and nearby hills.

Heritage Status

The Cape Palliser Lighthouse has been designated as a notable landmark due to its unique striped paint scheme, shared only by two other New Zealand lighthouses: Dog Island Lighthouse and Cape Campbell Lighthouse.

Notable Historical Events

While specific events are not documented in the available data, the Cape Palliser Lighthouse has undoubtedly played a significant role in maritime history, serving as a beacon of safety for generations of sailors and fishermen.

• History
• Architecture
• Light Characteristics
• Current Status
• Location and Accessibility
• Heritage Status
• Notable Historical Events