Guide to Cape Reinga Lighthouse

Cape Reinga Lighthouse is one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural and cultural landmarks. Visitors come to see the meeting of the seas – a visible clash of currents where the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean converge, often creating shifting lines and swirls in the water below. This natural phenomenon is both striking and symbolic. 

For Māori, this place is sacred. Known as Te Rerenga Wairua, it is believed to be the departure point for spirits returning to their ancestral homeland of Hawaiki. A lone pōhutukawa tree on the cliffs is said to mark the spot where spirits descend into the ocean. Interpretive signs along the path offer insight into the site’s cultural and spiritual importance. 

The Cape Reinga walk to the lighthouse is short and accessible, making it suitable for all ages. At the end, visitors are rewarded with expansive views over the coastline, lighthouse, and seas. It’s also a popular location for landscape photography, sunrise and sunset viewing, and taking a quiet moment at one of New Zealand’s northernmost points. 

How long should I spend at Cape Reinga Lighthouse?

Most travellers spend 1 to 2 hours at Cape Reinga Lighthouse. This allows time to walk to the lighthouse, take in the views, read the interpretive panels, and take photos. The walk is short, but visitors often spend extra time at the lookout points or simply sitting and observing the meeting of the seas. 

If you're including stops at nearby attractions such as Te Paki Sand Dunes or walking part of the Te Paki Coastal Track, you might want to allow half a day in the area. For campervan travellers, this can make for a relaxed and scenic northernmost stop before heading back down the Kauri Coast or east to Doubtless Bay. 

How long is the Cape Reinga Lighthouse walk?

The Cape Reinga Lighthouse walk is short, well-maintained, and suitable for most fitness levels. 

• Distance: Approx. 1 km return 

• Time: Around 10 minutes each way 

• Track: Sealed and gently sloped, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers 

• Features: Viewing platforms, interpretive signs, and photo opportunities 

The track follows a ridgeline out to the lighthouse, with constant views of the ocean and headlands. On clear days, the colours of the sea and sky are particularly vivid. 

How to get to Cape Reinga Lighthouse

Cape Reinga sits at the top of Te Ika-a-Māui (the North Island) and is accessible via State Highway 1. 

From Auckland: The drive is around 420 km (7–8 hours) via SH1. Many visitors break the journey with overnight stops in places like Whangārei, Opononi, or Kaitaia. 

From Kaitaia: Take SH1 north through the Aupōuri Peninsula for approximately 110 km (1.5 hours). The drive passes through remote forest and coastal scenery. There are no fuel stations beyond Houhora, so make sure to fill up before continuing. 

The entire route is sealed and suitable for campervans. There’s limited mobile coverage near the cape, so it’s a good idea to download maps or directions in advance. 

Best time to visit Cape Reinga Lighthouse

Best time of year: The best time to visit Cape Reinga is during late spring to early autumn (November–April). This period typically offers the most settled weather and clear skies, making the ocean views more striking. Summer (December–February) is the busiest time for visitors, particularly over the holidays. 

For fewer crowds and milder temperatures, March and April are ideal. Winter visits are still possible, but wind and rain are more likely. 

Best time of day: The best times of day are sunrise and sunset. Sunrise is particularly peaceful and offers soft light and fewer people. Sunset can be busier but delivers dramatic skies as the sun sets behind the Tasman Sea. Midday visits offer high visibility and brighter colours, though parking may be limited during peak hours. 

Weather at Cape Reinga Lighthouse

Cape Reinga has a mild, coastal climate: 

• Summer (Dec–Feb): 20–26 °C 

• Autumn/Spring: 17–22 °C 

• Winter (Jun–Aug): 10–16 °C 

Expect strong sun, especially in summer, along with occasional sea fog and wind. Rain can pass through quickly but may limit visibility at the lookout. 

Best place to park your campervan at Cape Reinga Lighthouse

A sealed car park is located at the end of State Highway 1, about 10 minutes’ walk from the lighthouse. It is suitable for campervans and motorhomes, with flat spaces available. 

Cape Reinga visitor tips

• There are no shops, fuel stations, or food outlets at Cape Reinga. The last services are in Pukenui or Houhora, so plan ahead. 

• Avoid eating at the site – as a wāhi tapu (sacred place), Cape Reinga is not appropriate for picnics or meals. 

• Cell coverage is limited, so download offline maps if needed. 

• Bring water, sunscreen, and a windproof layer – conditions can change quickly. 

• Stay on the path to protect fragile plant life and avoid cliff edges.