Nugget Point facts for kids
Nugget Point is a famous place on the Otago coast in New Zealand. It's a steep piece of land that sticks out into the ocean. You can find it at the top end of the Catlins coast, near a small town called Kaka Point.
At the very end of Nugget Point, there's a tall lighthouse. Around the lighthouse, you'll see some cool rocky islands called The Nuggets. This area is a busy home for many ocean animals. You might spot penguins, gannets, and royal spoonbills. It's also home to a large group of fur seals.
On the south side of Nugget Point, there's a place called Roaring Bay. This bay is special because it has a small group of yellow-eyed penguins living there.
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Nugget Point Lighthouse: A Guiding Light
Nugget Point was a dangerous spot for small ships sailing along the coast. To help guide them, the Nugget Point Lighthouse was built. It started working on July 4, 1870.
The lighthouse tower was made from local stones. It stands about 76 metres (249 ft) above the water. At first, it used an oil lamp. In 1949, it was changed to a bright 1000-watt electric lamp. For a while, a diesel generator made the electricity. Then, in the 1960s, it was connected to the main power grid.
Since 1989, the lighthouse has been automated. This means computers now control it. Maritime New Zealand watches over its operations.
Protecting the Ocean: Proposed Marine Reserve
The land at Nugget Point is already a special science reserve. However, the ocean area around it doesn't have much protection yet. The New Zealand Department of Conservation has twice suggested creating a marine reserve here.
A marine reserve helps protect ocean plants and animals. But this idea has caused some debate. Many local communities rely on fishing for their jobs. They worry that a reserve might stop them from fishing. Groups that represent the fishing industry have also spoken against it.
On the other hand, many scientists from the University of Otago support the idea. They believe a marine reserve is important for keeping the ocean healthy. The first plan for the reserve would have protected a much larger area of coastline. The latest plan from the Department of Conservation covers a smaller area. The Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society wants an even bigger area protected.
Visiting Nugget Point: What to See and Do
Nugget Point is a great side trip if you are traveling along the Southern Scenic Route. There are two easy walks you can do, each taking about 20 minutes to go there and back.
One walk leads you to a viewing platform right next to the lighthouse. From here, you get amazing views of the lighthouse and the rocky "Nuggets" islands. The other walk takes you to Roaring Bay.
The closest town with places to stay is Kaka Point. The road to Nugget Point, called Nuggets Road, is paved all the way. It climbs up to two car parks at the point.
The walk to Roaring Bay starts at the lower car park. It leads to a special bird hide. From here, you can quietly watch the amazing yellow-eyed penguins. You might also see fur seals and sometimes even sea lions or elephant seals. Nugget Point is one of the few places in New Zealand where you can regularly spot elephant seals.
From the shore, you might even see large ocean animals like southern right whales and humpback whales during their migration. Orca and dolphins, including the special Hector's dolphins, can also be spotted in the waters nearby.
See also
In Spanish: Nugget Point para niños
