Pencarrow Head Lighthouse

Pencarrow Head Lighthouse is a cast iron tower standing on the Wellington coastline in Lower Hutt City. The white structure sits on a rocky headland and uses modern navigation equipment to guide vessels safely through the waters.

This lighthouse was built in 1859 and was New Zealand's first permanent lighthouse tower. A second, lower structure was added in 1906 because fog and clouds often hid the original tower from ships at sea.

Mary Bennett made history at this location by becoming the first and only female lighthouse keeper in New Zealand's maritime service.

The lighthouse can only be reached on foot or by mountain bike and requires planning for a longer outing. Visitors should wear proper footwear and bring water, and should check weather conditions before heading out.

The site required construction of a second, lower lighthouse in 1906 because fog and clouds frequently obscured the original higher structure.

Location: Lower Hutt City

Operator: Greater Wellington Regional Council

GPS coordinates: -41.35890,174.85004

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:01