Cape Egmont Lighthouse Storm Clouds Taranaki New Zealand
Photo & Vacation Spot

Dark storm clouds move in over the Cape Egmont Lighthouse which guards the western most point of Taranaki on the North Island of New Zealand.

Since August 1, 1881, the Cape Egmont Lighthouse has watched over the coastline of Taranaki, New Zealand which was originally built during the middle of the 1800's in London. Shipped from London in 1865, the lighthouse was first erected on Mana Island but was in an awkward and confusing place for vessels causing various accidents. The lighthouse was soon moved to its current location, a more advantageous location for passing vessels, especially when the storm clouds moved in.

Up until 1986, the Cape Egmont Lighthouse was manned by a lighthouse keeper with the exception of a few years when problems arose regarding the town of Parihaka, New Zealand. During this time, the lighthouse ran off diesel generators until the lighthouse keepers took over again. When modern technology moved into the picture, the keeper was released from his duties, the light was automated and now flashes at night every eight seconds which can be seen for 22 nautical miles.

When the clouds darken and the threat of a storm is possible, the Cape Egmont Lighthouse aids mariners through these difficult waters. On a clear day, the beauty of Mt. Taranaki stands in the backdrop and the lighthouse and the mountain become two of New Zealand's prominent features.

Visitors can climb the steps to the base of the Cape Egmont Lighthouse, read the history of the light and enjoy the scenery overlooking the Taranaki region.

Cape Egmont Lighthouse, Cape Egmont, Taranaki, North Island, New Zealand.