Cape Palliser Lighthouse

Standing sentinel at the southernmost point of New Zealand's North Island, the Cape Palliser Lighthouse is an iconic beacon that has been guiding sailors through the treacherous waters of Cook Strait since 1897. Rising from the rugged coastline, this historic lighthouse is not only a navigational aid but also a popular tourist attraction, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes.

The journey to Cape Palliser Lighthouse is an adventure in itself, involving a scenic drive through the picturesque Wairarapa countryside and a climb of 253 steps to reach the lighthouse. Those who make the ascent are rewarded with panoramic vistas that stretch across the sea to the South Island on a clear day.

Constructed to enhance the safety of maritime travel in the area, the lighthouse stands 18 meters tall and is painted in distinctive red and white stripes, making it easily visible against the backdrop of the coast. It was initially fueled by oil and then converted to automatic electric operation in 1954, eliminating the need for a full-time lighthouse keeper.