Book to stay at the renovated Assistant Lighthouse Keepers Cottage!
The main access is via the East Harbour Regional park car park, 18 kms south of Wainuiomata along the Coast Road. Cross the bridge on foot and follow the river track south, or the road up the hill to the north, before it loops around back to towards the lighthouse. There are composing toilets at the carpark. Do not leave valuables in you car. There are also composting toilets at the lighthouse complex.
Alternate access is from Wainuiomata Beach off the Coast Road, south of Wainuiomata. Drive until you reach the sea, where you can park and walk to the beach. If you are really keen you can walk west along the beach and cross the Wainuiomata River if it is safe, carrying on to the prominent rocks on the beach at Baring Head. This is a popular rock climbing spot, good for a picnic, and with a view of the Baring Head lighthouse above. Not that deepening on much much rain there has been recently the river mouth will be open or closed. Do not attempt to cross if the river is flowing into the sea – it can be very hazardous as waves wash up the beach into the river.
Alternative access is from Eastbourne. It’s a long hike (18km one way), but a lovely flat bike ride. If it’s a southerly wind, you’ll have the wind behind you on the way back. But if it’s a northerly wind, be prepared – it can be a tough slog back – allow plenty of time. See Google Maps.
Take the East by West ferry from central Wellington to Days Bay.
Bikes (kids, adults and child seats) and e-Bikes can be rented from Wild Finder bike rental at Days Bay or Pencarrow. They recommend bookings, especially on weekends and fine days.
See the Greater Wellington Regional Council page for more details on access and tracks in the East Harbour Regional Park.
Note the area of private property marked on the map, just to the north of the lighthouse complex, and please respect our neighbour boundaries and privacy.