Cape Foulwind Lighthouse

Cape Foulwind Lighthouse is a popular destination for those traveling to the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. Located at Cape Foulwind, 11 km (7 mi) west of the town of Westport, this lighthouse is one of the most accessible in the country. Constructed in 1876, the lighthouse is a Category 2 heritage listed structure and is a Heritage New Zealand Category 2 historic place listing. The tower is made of concrete and stands at a height of 9 metres (30 ft).

The lighthouse was automated in 1926 and is powered by solar power. The light guides vessels along the Buller coast, and the lighthouse is an important part of New Zealand's maritime history. Visitors can learn about the history of the lighthouse and its importance to the region at the West Coast Recollect.

Visitors can enjoy a scenic 11-kilometre (6.8 mi) drive west from Westport to reach the lighthouse. The Cape Foulwind Walkway is an easy walk suitable for all the family, with a seal colony, a lighthouse, and panoramic views of mountains and coastline. The path is inviting, if steep in places, and the scenery includes wave-swept beaches and rocky outcrops, bush, seabirds including blue penguins. The lighthouse has a focal height of 70 metres (230 ft) above sea level and is a LED flashing beacon with a range of 10 nautical miles (19 km; 12 mi).

In summary, Cape Foulwind Lighthouse is a beautiful and historic destination that offers visitors stunning views of the coastline, a chance to see seals and blue penguins, and an opportunity to learn about New Zealand's maritime history.