Erected 1865 on Mana Island is a lighthouse worth a detour especially for lighthouse buffs. The lighthouse story is narrated by the South Taranaki Museum, “The Historic Cape Light and Museum houses the light from the original lighthouse.
The light is still operational by inserting a $2 coin. The museum holds many local treasures including information about Lord Earnest Rutherford’s early days on the coast. The Rutherford family ran a flax mill close to the Cape Lighthouse.
There is maritime memorabilia featuring early shipping along the coast as well.”
The lighthouse is approximately 40 minutes from Hawera so check opening hours with the local visitor centre or while visiting the museum to avoid disappointment.
