Baring Head Lighthouse

Baring Head Lighthouse is a concrete structure that was built to be the main approach light to Wellington Harbour, as well as a coastal light for Cook Strait.

The lighthouse is owned and operated by Maritime New Zealand and can be accessed via walking tracks in the southern area of the East Harbour Regional Park, south of Wainuiomata. The lighthouse was lit on 18 June 1935, replacing the light at Pencarrow Head, which was decommissioned later that year. Initially powered by a diesel generator, the lighthouse was converted to mains electricity in 1950. The 1000 W light was fully automated in 1989 and demanned. In February 2005, the original lens was replaced by a flashing LED beacon visible from up to 18 kilometers (10 nautical miles; 11 miles).

The lighthouse is a hexagonal, 12-meter high 1930's reinforced concrete structure that is situated on a small reserve vested in Maritime New Zealand. The LED beacon is powered by mains electricity and is visible from up to 18 kilometers away. The walk to the lighthouse is a beautiful experience, with stunning views of the rugged coastline and the South Island on a clear day. The walk is generally considered a moderately challenging route, taking an average of 1-2 hours to complete. The lighthouse is also a popular destination for families, with many visitors taking the opportunity to explore the surrounding area and enjoy a picnic on the reserve.

Baring Head Lighthouse is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Wellington Region of the North Island of New Zealand. The lighthouse is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, with many visitors taking the opportunity to walk the Baring Head Loop, a 4.2-mile loop trail near Wainuiomata, Wellington. Overall, Baring Head Lighthouse is a shining example of New Zealand's maritime history and a true gem of the North Island.