Castle Point Lighthouse facts for kids
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 Castle Point Lighthouse
Location in New Zealand
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| Location | Castlepoint North Island New Zealand |
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| Coordinates | 40°54′01.5″S 176°13′53.2″E / 40.900417°S 176.231444°E |
| Year first constructed | 1913 |
| Year first lit | 1913 |
| Automated | 1988 |
| Construction | cast iron tower |
| Tower shape | tapered cylindrical tower with balcony and lantern |
| Markings / pattern | white tower, gray lantern dome |
| Height | 23 metres (75 ft) |
| Focal height | 52 metres (171 ft) |
| Range | 26 nautical miles (48 km; 30 mi) |
| Characteristic | Fl (3) W 30s. |
| Admiralty number | K3994 |
| NGA number | 4572 |
| ARLHS number | NZL-016 |
The Castle Point Lighthouse is a very tall and important lighthouse. It stands near the village of Castlepoint in the Wellington Region of New Zealand's North Island. This lighthouse is 52 meters (about 170 feet) above sea level. This makes it the tallest lighthouse on the North Island! It is also one of only two lighthouses in New Zealand that still has a light beam that rotates. Maritime New Zealand owns and operates this amazing structure.
The Story of Castle Point Lighthouse
The Castle Point Lighthouse was built in 1913. It first started shining on Sunday, January 12, 1913. When it was new, the light was powered by oil. It sent out three flashes every 45 seconds. People could see its bright light from as far as 35 kilometers (about 22 miles) away!
Changes Over Time
In 1954, the old oil lamp was replaced. A new electric lamp took its place. This new lamp got its power from a diesel generator located nearby. Later, in 1961, the lighthouse was connected to the main electricity grid. This meant it no longer needed its own generator.
The beach near Castlepoint is a popular spot for people on holiday. Because of this, the lighthouse itself became a well-known place for tourists to visit. It even earned the friendly nickname "The Holiday Light."
How the Light Works Now
In 1988, the Castle Point Lighthouse became fully automated. This means no one needs to be there to operate it anymore. It is now managed from a central control room in Wellington.
