White lighthouse on grassy cliff

A Peek Inside Pencarrow Lighthouse

Walk or cycle out to Pencarrow and pay a visit to New Zealand's first lighthouse. Usually closed to the public, we're opening the doors for you to peek inside.

Located on beautiful and often windswept Pencarrow Head, New Zealand's oldest lighthouse dates to 1859. Chat with knowledgeable guides about the history, construction and stories behind this unique Pōneke landmark, and explore the interior, usually restricted for public access.

Health & Safety

Note that the track up to the lighthouse is steep and can be muddy. Ensure adequate footwear is worn. The weather can be changeable, so bring water and snacks with you, as well as a hat and sunscreen. Pencarrow is also prone to high winds, so bring a jacket. There are no toilets along the track up to Pencarrow Lighthouse or at the lighthouse itself. Public toilets are located near the end of Pencarrow Coast Road. All Heritage NZ properties are smoke and vape-free sites. The lighthouse itself has two narrow flights of stairs inside. Entry is at your own risk.

Location
Pencarrow Head, Lower Hutt

Regions

Lower Hutt

Tags

Open Day
Site Tour
Self-Guided

Event times

11am-2pm Sun 1 Nov


Koha

Cost: $10 suggested koha

Event hosts

Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga

Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga is the government agency responsible for identifying, protecting, and promoting the unique historical and cultural heritage of Aotearoa New Zealand.

Email: infocentral@heritage.org.nz

Phone: 04 472 4341

Website: https://www.visitheritage.co.nz/