Bean Rock Lighthouse, Auckland

The Bean Rock Lighthouse stands as a sentinel in the Waitematā Harbour, serving as a navigational aid for the bustling maritime city of Auckland, New Zealand. Erected in 1871, this iconic structure is not only the oldest wooden lighthouse in the country but also the only one in New Zealand still in its original form and location.

Perched on a rocky shoal, Bean Rock Lighthouse is a testament to the maritime heritage of the region. Its construction was a response to the growing need for a reliable guiding light to ensure the safe passage of ships into Auckland's harbors. The lighthouse's hexagonal design and wooden construction are unique, and its historical significance has earned it a place on the Heritage New Zealand list of protected structures.

Standing at a modest height, Bean Rock Lighthouse continues to be an operational aid to navigation. Its light, automated since 1912, casts a reassuring beam across the waters, guiding vessels as they enter and exit the harbor. The lighthouse is not open to the public, but it remains an iconic sight, visible from various vantage points along Auckland's coastline and from boats navigating the harbor.

While Bean Rock Lighthouse may not boast observation decks or the grandeur of towering steel edifices, its charm lies in its simplicity and the romanticism of maritime history. For those interested in New Zealand's nautical past, a boat tour around the Waitematā Harbour provides an excellent opportunity to view the lighthouse up close and to learn more about its role in Auckland's development as a major port city.