Waipapa Point Lighthouse

The Waipapa Point Lighthouse was first lit on 1 January 1884, in response to the tragic wreck of the passenger steamer SS Tararua on reefs off Waipapa Point on 29 April 1881, resulting in the loss of 131 lives. This incident prompted the construction of a lighthouse to aid navigation and prevent similar accidents.

Architecture

The lighthouse was built using traditional materials for its time, with a wooden structure. It stands at a height of 21 meters (69 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of approximately 25 meters (82 feet). The tower's design is characteristic of the late 19th-century New Zealand lighthouses.

Light Characteristics

The Waipapa Point Lighthouse emits a white light with a range of 9 nautical miles and a period of 20 seconds. The light pattern consists of a sequence of flashes, with a dominant flash every 11 seconds. This unique sequence serves as a recognizable aid to navigation for mariners.

Current Status

The lighthouse was automated in 1975, with keepers no longer required on site. Since its automation, the structure has been powered by solar energy since 1988. In 2008, a new LED beacon was installed externally on the balcony of the lighthouse, enhancing its visibility and reliability.

Location

The Waipapa Point Lighthouse is situated at Waipapa Lighthouse Road, in the Waihopai Toetoe Community, Southland, New Zealand. The location provides stunning views of the surrounding coastline and is easily accessible by road.

Heritage Status

As a historic structure, the Waipapa Point Lighthouse holds significant cultural and architectural value. Its construction and operation reflect the maritime history of New Zealand, particularly during the late 19th century.

Notable Historical Events

The lighthouse played a crucial role in responding to the SS Tararua's tragic wreck, serving as a vital aid to navigation for mariners in the region. The incident led to significant changes in maritime safety regulations and the construction of this iconic structure.

History

1. The Waipapa Point Lighthouse was first lit on 1 January 1884, in response to the tragic wreck of the passenger steamer SS Tararua on reefs off Waipapa Point on 29 April 1881, resulting in the loss of 131 lives.
2. This incident prompted the construction of a lighthouse to aid navigation and prevent similar accidents.

Architecture

1. The lighthouse was built using traditional materials for its time, with a wooden structure.
2. It stands at a height of 21 meters (69 feet) above sea level, with a focal height of approximately 25 meters (82 feet).
3. The tower's design is characteristic of the late 19th-century New Zealand lighthouses.

Light Characteristics

1. The Waipapa Point Lighthouse emits a white light with a range of 9 nautical miles and a period of 20 seconds.
2. The light pattern consists of a sequence of flashes, with a dominant flash every 11 seconds.
3. This unique sequence serves as a recognizable aid to navigation for mariners.

Current Status

1. The lighthouse was automated in 1975, with keepers no longer required on site.
2. Since its automation, the structure has been powered by solar energy since 1988.
3. In 2008, a new LED beacon was installed externally on the balcony of the lighthouse, enhancing its visibility and reliability.

Location

1. The Waipapa Point Lighthouse is situated at Waipapa Lighthouse Road, in the Waihopai Toetoe Community, Southland, New Zealand.
2. The location provides stunning views of the surrounding coastline and is easily accessible by road.

Heritage Status

1. As a historic structure, the Waipapa Point Lighthouse holds significant cultural and architectural value.
2. Its construction and operation reflect the maritime history of New Zealand, particularly during the late 19th century.

Notable Historical Events

1. The lighthouse played a crucial role in responding to the SS Tararua's tragic wreck, serving as a vital aid to navigation for mariners in the region.
2. The incident led to significant changes in maritime safety regulations and the construction of this iconic structure.