Cape Brett Lighthouse facts for kids
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 Cape Brett Lighthouse
Location in New Zealand
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| Location | Cape Brett North Island New Zealand |
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| Coordinates | 35°10′31.1″S 174°19′57.3″E / 35.175306°S 174.332583°E |
| Year first constructed | 1910 (first) |
| Year first lit | 1978 (current) |
| Deactivated | 1978 (first) |
| Construction | cast iron tower (first) fibreglass tower (current) |
| Tower shape | cylindrical tower with lantern |
| Markings / pattern | white tower |
| Height | approx. 15 metres (49 ft) (first) 4 metres (13 ft) (current) |
| Focal height | 146 metres (479 ft) |
| Characteristic | Fl W 15s. (current) |
| Admiralty number | K3709 |
| NGA number | 3912 |
| ARLHS number | NZL-005 |
The Cape Brett Lighthouse is a famous lighthouse located at Cape Brett in the Northland Region of the North Island of New Zealand. Lighthouses are tall towers with bright lights. They help ships find their way and stay safe from dangerous coastlines.
History of the Lighthouse
Choosing the Location
In 1908, Captain John Bollons carefully looked at the area. He was the captain of the ship NZGSS Hinemoa. Captain Bollons chose the perfect spot for the lighthouse.
Building and Changes
The first Cape Brett Lighthouse was built in 1910. It was a tall, cylindrical tower. This tower was made of strong cast iron. It stood about 15 meters (49 feet) high.
For many years, lighthouse keepers lived and worked there. They made sure the light kept shining. In 1978, the original lighthouse was turned off. The keepers also left the site.
A new, smaller light was put in its place. This new light is automated, meaning it works by itself. It is a fibreglass tower, only about 4 meters (13 feet) tall.
A Historic Place
The Cape Brett Lighthouse and its buildings are very important. They are listed on the Heritage New Zealand list. This means they are a Category 1 Historic Place. They were added to this list on June 26, 2009. Being a Category 1 Historic Place means it is a site of special historical importance.
