Lighthouses and Lakes

The hilltop Pencarrow lighthouse, built in 1858, was the first in New Zealand. The first keeper, Mary Jane Bennett, was New Zealand's only woman lighthouse keeper. She stayed in this position with her children for 10 years before returning to England. On the return leg, you'll pass the second lower level lighthouse. Owing to occasional fog obscuring the light, the low level lighthouse was built in 1906 and still operates today. Now that livestock no longer graze the lake surrounds and the area is actively managed to control pests, you can expect to see significant increases in birdlife.

If you know of any public toilets near the trail start or on the route, please login and then let us know so we can update this section.

Plenty of parking available at the start. The Eastbourne bus terminus is also a short walk from the start if taking public transport

15 km

22 minutes

Unknown

No

Easy.

Don't be tempted to add on the extra loop around Lake Kohangatera. The boardwalk at Lake Kohangatera that crosses Gollans Stream wetland as part of the Lakes Block circuit walk has been removed. This is due to flooding from storms pushing a large mat of vegetation against the boardwalk which may have caused more flooding. Hopefully this will be replaced at some point in the future.

Very patchy.

Long-sleeved thermal top, Windproof jacket, Beanie/thermal headwear, Whistle, First aid kit, Extra food for emergencies, Cellphone, Map

No water available on route so take what you need

The coast road is very exposed so expect wind and take appropriate gear accordingly.

Dogs must be on a leash to protect wildlife nesting habitat and grazing livestock. Dogs are not allowed south of the hill track to the lighthouse. Please note that from 1 August to 30 October each year (lambing season) dogs are not allowed on the Pencarrow Coast Road.

See comment in run description about the boardwalk