Cuvier Island Lighthouse facts for kids
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Location | Cuvier Island North Island New Zealand |
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Coordinates | 36°26′23.2″S 175°47′10.3″E / 36.439778°S 175.786194°E |
Year first constructed | 1889 |
Year first lit | 1889 |
Automated | 1982 |
Construction | cast iron tower |
Tower shape | cylindrical tower with balcony and lantern |
Markings / pattern | white ower, black lantern dome |
Height | 15 metres (49 ft) |
Focal height | 119 metres (390 ft) |
Range | 19 nautical miles (35 km; 22 mi) |
Characteristic | Fl W 15s. |
Admiralty number | K3886 |
NGA number | 4284. |
ARLHS number | NZL-018 |
Cuvier Island Lighthouse is a tall lighthouse found on Cuvier Island. This small island is located off the east coast of the North Island in New Zealand. The lighthouse helps guide ships safely. It is looked after by Maritime New Zealand.
Building the Lighthouse
The Cuvier Island Lighthouse was built in 1889. It was a very special building for its time. This was because it was the very first lighthouse in New Zealand made from cast iron. Cast iron is a strong metal that lasts a long time.
How the Lighthouse Works Now
In 1982, the lighthouse became fully automated. This means machines now do all the work. No one needs to live there anymore. The lighthouse is controlled from Wellington. This is where the main office for Maritime New Zealand is located. The light now uses solar power. This is a clean and modern way to get energy from the sun.
Cuvier Island: A Special Place
Cuvier Island is more than just a home for a lighthouse. It is also a special place for nature. The island is a wildlife reserve. This means it protects many different animals and plants. The Department of Conservation manages the island. They work hard to keep it safe. The island is part of a big project. This project aims to bring back native wildlife. It helps the island's natural environment grow strong again.