Lighthouse Walk
Alerts
Check the DOC website for current alerts and conditions before you go. This site gets current alert info from DOC, but is not an official source of information.
Explore Castlepoint Scenic Reserve by following the boardwalk over the reef and past the lighthouse.
Elevation
Cover mapped summer 2023/24.
Description
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.
Getting there
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.
Know before you go
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.
Weather
Forecast at the start of the track