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Pouto Lighthouse

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Built in 1884 and now protected by the Historic Places Trust, Pouto Lighthouse is a spectacular three storey wooden lighthouse ideal for a picninc or walk. At one time this harbour was the busiest in New Zealand with sailing ships carrying out the regions valuable kauri timber and gum.

The harbour, its infamous mouth and sandbar and the coast nearby were treacherous. An area of Pouto is called The Graveyard because of the many ships which went down there. In certain tidal and sand conditions, the remains of wrecks may be partially exposed offshore or in the sand. Maori habitation of Pouto goes back to ancient times and in recent years relics have been found of a civilisation thought to pre-date Maori settlement of the area.

There is much to do & see: Trek Baylys beach on horseback; Dive at one of the many superb sites found throughout Northland; Fish; Watch the birds; Snap the local wildlife, and; learn about the Maori people's long-held attachment to this part of the country.

Pouto Lighthouse

Details

History: History The lighthouse is situated on the last outcrop of sandstone and is 278 feet above sea level. Erected in 1884 by Mr D Scott. First operated on 1st December 1884. The cost of building the lighthouse was 5571 pounds. To accommodate the lighthouse keepers two small cottages and tool sheds were built nearby. The lighthouse switched to automation on 17th November, 1947 and on that day the harbour was closed to ships. It is now under the Historic Places Trust.
Local Area: Ripiro Beach, just 15 minutes from Dargaville, is the longest driveable beach in New Zealand. It extends 100km from Maunganui Bluff in the north to Pouto Point at the entrance to the Kaipara Harbour in the south.