Waipapa Point

Today is a chance to have a photocall at the furthestmost southern point and to ponder the fate of shipwrecks. The dramatic coast has another lighthouse to walk around while the constant roar of the surf reminds visitors of the wild meets southern oceans. Perhaps the tides mean a return to Curio Bay to check out fossilised forests now hidden on the rocky shoreline. Nearby is a small cemetery for shipwreck victims. The passenger steamer Tararua sank off Waipapa Point on 29 April 1881. Of the 151 people on board only 20 survived. The lighthouse was built in response to the tragedy. The lighthouse continues to this day and is automated. There is no public access.