Built from local kauri in 1883 by engineer John Blackett, the Kaipara Lighthouse has considerable cultural and architectural significance, with close connections to the local community. One of a small number of remaining timber lighthouses, this 13 metre high example is a tapering six-sided tower, three storeys high with a core of rubble inside the tower to keep it secure in high winds. Originally built to guide ships across the treacherous Kaipara Bar, it became derelict in the 1950s. The lighthouse has now been restored and managed by Heritage New Zealand.
In the 1880’s Lighthouse keepers were expected to be, ‘Sober and industrious, cleanly in their persons and habits, and orderly in their families. Any flagrant immorality will be subject to immediate dismissal’.
It was a tough life! This model was made for someone to whom the Kaipara lighthouse occupies a special place in their memory.