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Taiaroa Head Lighthouse

Fl (2) W 18s🇳🇿South Island (Otago Region), NZOperational

Location & Light Range

About Taiaroa Head Lighthouse

The lighthouse at Taiaroa Head was constructed and first illuminated in 1865. It stands 12 meters in height, with its light positioned at a focal plane of 60 meters above sea level. The characteristic of its light is two white flashes, which repeat every 18 seconds. This light has a recognized geographic range of 18 nautical miles, providing a visual reference for mariners.

Why it matters: This structure is recognized as a Heritage New Zealand Category 1 historic place.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl (2) W 18s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
2 flashes
Interval
18s
Raw Code
Fl.(2)W. period 18s
Focal Height
60m
Geographic Range
18NM

Construction & History

Year Built
1865
Heritage Status
Heritage New Zealand Category 1 historic place listing

References & Identifiers

Admiralty No.
K4364
NGA No.
K 4364
Wikidata
Q28375020 →
OpenStreetMap
View on OSM →

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
12m

Location

City
South Island (Otago Region)
Country
🇳🇿NZ
Latitude
-45.7734°
Longitude
170.7288°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Taiaroa Head Lighthouse at night?+
Taiaroa Head displays the characteristic Fl (2) W 18s — 2 white flashes every 18 seconds. Each lighthouse has a unique flash pattern published in the List of Lights, allowing mariners to positively identify it and distinguish it from other navigation aids in the area.
Which ports and harbors does Taiaroa Head Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Taiaroa Head Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Port Chalmers at 4.8 NM to the WSW. Other ports served include Otago Harbour (5 NM WSW), Ravensbourne (9.6 NM SW), DUNEDIN (10.8 NM SW), OAMARU (41.3 NM NNE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Taiaroa Head Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Taiaroa Head Lighthouse is currently operational. It is actively maintained and continues to emit its characteristic light signal for marine navigation. Most modern lighthouses are automated and monitored remotely by the national maritime authority.
How can I track vessels near Taiaroa Head Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Taiaroa Head Lighthouse in real time using MarineRadar. The platform shows live AIS positions of ships in the area, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page to open the live map centered on this lighthouse.