The Three Kings (1969)
View of Three Kings Islands from Cape Reinga
In 1861 Captain Robert Johnson, Nautical Advisor recommended a lighthouse be constructed on The Three Kings Islands. But at the time it was considered to expensive due to the difficult landing access.
In 1923, Big King Island which rises 995 feet was surveyed and funding was secured for a manned light and radio beacon. However the lighthouse was never built and the debate went on through 1924/1925.
An unmanned light was finally built on Big King Island in 1969. The aluminum structure was lifted off the deck of the 'HMNZS Lachlan' and landed by helicopter on a site 934 feet above the sea. The light has a range of 24 miles.
DIRECTIONS:
| Island | North |
| Province | Northland |
| Location | North of Cape Reinga on Big King Island |
| Number | K3685 |
| Date Commissioned | 1969 |
| Date Decommissioned | |
| Automated | Never manned |
| Latitude | 34° 94' South |
| Longitude | 172° 8' East |
| Elevation Above Sea Level | 285m |
| Height | 5m |
| Character | 3 white flashes every 30 seconds |
| Range | 13 N. miles |
| Made | |
| Construction | White square metal tower |
| Converted Kerosene To Diesel | |
| Converted Diesel To Mains Electricity | |
| Connected To Mains Electricity | |
| Wattage | |
| Date Visited |
Text and photographs. Copyright © 1999-2005 Mark Phillips. All rights reserved.