Image: Chris Gin | Creative Commons
Boardwalk trail leading to a lighthouse on a hilltop with the ocean in the background and grey storm clouds in the sky.
Lighthouse Walk

Located in Castlepoint Scenic Reserve in the Wairarapa region

Explore Castlepoint Scenic Reserve by following the boardwalk over the reef and past the lighthouse.

This walk leads to Castlepoint Lighthouse and then onto lookouts. The views from these points give great views of the sea and of Castlepoint and the Wairarapa east coast. After these lookouts you can walk down a set of stairs and along the cliffs. Steer clear of the cliff edges which are subject to tidal waves.

Castlepoint is located on Wairarapa's east coast about 1 hour's drive from Masterton. Follow Te Ore Ore Road on the northern outskirts of Masterton. This road becomes the Masterton Castlepoint Road and leads directly to Castlepoint Scenic Reserve.

Fall risk

There is a risk of falling on sections of this track due to cliffs. Keep to the marked track and avoid cliff edges. Keep children within sight and do not let them near edges.

Visitors may walk along the cliffs at the bottom of the lighthouse but should steer clear of the cliff edges which are subject to large waves.

Avoid the reef

The reef by the lagoon at the bottom of the Lighthouse Walk should be avoided. It is extremely dangerous and sea conditions are unpredictable.

Beware of tidal and rogue waves. Fatalities have occurred here.

Seals

New Zealand Fur Seals are frequently encountered at Castlepoint. Keep an eye out for them, and do not disturb or approach them.