Cape Reinga is where the stormy Tasman Sea collides with the immense Pacific Ocean. At its rocky tip, you’ll find the iconic Cape Reinga Lighthouse standing still amongst the fierce winds. This memorable structure lies at the very end of the road in New Zealand’s Northland. But, the cape is more than the light that aids in navigating ships. It’s a place that holds a ton of history.
You shouldn’t be surprised to hear then that Cape Reinga, or Te Rerenga Wairua, is a cultural site of great significance. Māori lore states that after death, this is the place a person’s spirit comes to depart for their afterlife.
While I can’t say I saw any spirits on their journey, I’d like to note there’s an otherworldly feeling at the country’s northern tip. The devastating waves, gusting winds, and sporadic rain storms only amplify the feeling. Add that to the tales and stories inscribed on wooden signs along the walkway and you have something ethereal.
Keep In Mind | This is one of the most important Māori sites in all of New Zealand, so make sure to read the signs and be aware of its importance.
The rugged cape is also home to a lonely pohutukawa tree. In Māori mythology, it’s said that this tree is the leaping-off point for the Māori spirits. They descend its roots before traveling underwater to the Three Kings Islands. At around 800 years old, it’s also one of many unique flora and fauna in the area.
The drive to the cape is a thing of beauty as well. You’ll pass sights like Rarawa Beach’s bright white silica sand, the neverending beauty of Ninety Mile Beach, and the giant Te Paki Sand Dunes. Combining a few of these places in a Cape Reinga road trip is a great way to explore the Northland.
THE CAPE REINGA LIGHTHOUSE
Despite the extensive history of Cape Reinga, its famous lighthouse wasn’t built until 1941. However, a lighthouse did originally exist on nearby Motuopao Island from the 1800s until its eventual relocation before WWII. When you see the cape, you’ll understand why the new point was chosen. The seas are rough and wild around here, making access to an island extremely difficult.
The impressive tower of the current lighthouse was the last man-watched structure of its kind to be built in the whole of New Zealand. Don’t expect to see a “wickie” there today though, the last keeper was withdrawn in 1987. Nowadays the house is remotely controlled from the capital city of Wellington. However, it’s still commonly known as the first thing sailors see upon arriving in New Zealand.
Trek | The walk to the lighthouse is a quick and easy hike. It’ll take about 10 minutes each way, offering plenty of panoramic views along the path. Like with most places in New Zealand try to clean your shoes and gear, to not harm any endangered or endemic species.
With the views of whirling tides and a mixture of ancient and modern history, Te Rerenga Wairua is a sublime beauty, worthy of the drive to the North Island’s last stop.
Don’t Forget | Eating and drinking aren’t permitted here. It’s both a sacred site and a place full of unique wildlife. I suggest bringing a picnic and eating at one of the stops along the road to the cape.
How to get to Te Rerenga Wairua?
There’s only one road leading to Te Rerenga Wairua, New Zealand State Highway 1. You’ll either need to go with a tourist bus or in a car. If you don’t have your own vehicle, this tour here is a good option.
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