Katiki Point and Lighthouse

Katiki Point and Lighthouse From the village, drive up the hill, turn right into Tenby Street and left into Lighthouse Road. The road is mostly unsealed for 3.5 kilometres.

This lighthouse station, with 8.5 metres high wooden tower,served as a warning of the dangerous reefs below at the entrance to Moeraki Port. It was one of few around the New Zealand Coastline which was always accessible. Thanks to road and rail, the lighthouse keepers families could use local shops and schools. The station was manned from 1878 until 1975. Though the original workings are still in place the light is now from an LED on the lighthouse balcony.

Janice Jones, who lives in the former lighthouse keeper's house, tends penguins in her 'hospital'.

Here you can enjoy free viewing of the rare hoiho (yellow-eyed) penguin. Walk down the track to the hide and watch the penguins come ashore in the late afternoon. Binoculars are useful as you are not permitted to get close to the birds. The best visiting times are dawn or dusk.

Image Credit: Sian Munson Photographer