Wellington Regional Trails
Two people are walking up the steps in front of the Castlepoint Lighthouse in the Wairarapa region.

In a region full of wonderful vistas, this short trail along a wild, rugged coastline leads to one of the most recognisable landmarks in New Zealand.

Walking time

30 min return

Length

821m

Uses

Walking/Running

Type

Single track

Walking difficulty

Easy: Walking track

Profile

45m climb

-45m descent

48m highest point

Dogs

No
A family walks along a wooden path near Castlepoint, rocks in the background are lit up by the glaring sun.

About the trail

The Castlepoint Lighthouse Walk is a short trail following the cliffs above Castlepoint Scenic Reserve.

Built in 1913, the lighthouse is one of the last in the country with a rotating beam. Standing 52m above sea level (the actual lighthouse is 23m high), it offers breathtaking views over the Wairarapa Coast. Fossick for fossil shells on the beach below, or if you’re lucky, you may encounter a colony of fur seals sunbathing in the reserve.

Getting there

  • The trail is an hour east of Masterton. Turn right onto Te Ore Ore Road on the northern outskirts of Masterton. This road becomes the Masterton Castlepoint Road and leads directly to Castlepoint Scenic Reserve.
  • There are regular train services from Wellington to Masterton, and timetables are available from the Metlink website. However, you will need a vehicle to get from Masterton to Castlepoint.
Wooden walkway leading to the Castlepoint lighthouse with hills in background and blue ocean.

Know before you go

  • Visit Plan My Walk for track alerts, weather forecasts, trip reviews and a packing list.
  • Get an up-to-date weather report from the MetService website before setting off.
  • Take warm waterproof clothing, durable footwear, and sun protection.
  • Parking is available at the Castlepoint Scenic Reserve car park.
  • Toilets, water and basic supplies are available in the nearby township of Castlepoint.
  • If you encounter fur seals in the Castlepoint Scenic Reserve, please keep your distance and don’t walk between them and their ocean territory.
  • No dogs permitted.

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