NEW ZEALAND LIGHTHOUSES

Timaru Harbour (1878)

Timaru harbour's earliest recorded lighthouse was possibly a tower built on top of a cottage in 1858. This lighthouse was shown on a chart before Pencarrow lighthouse was built. Little is known about this early light.

By the 1870's a proper lighthouse was required but the local authorities couldn't agree on whether to build a coastal light at Patiti Point, a site just north of the present Jack's Point lighthouse or to build a harbour light. The Canterbury Provincial Council approved £1000 for a light at Patiti Point but it was later agreed that a costal light was not required and they decided to build a harbour light at the site of the former cottage lighthouse, near Port Signal Street.

The lighthouse was designed by John Blackett, marine engineer, using the native wood Kauri and tenders for construction were called for in June, 1876. But before the contract was let, the Timaru Harbour Board was formed in October, 1876 and the tenders were cancelled. The new harbour board wanted the construction to be of stone and further delays were experienced. Stone proved to be to expensive and construction of the lighthouse begun. The tower cost £259 and the keepers house £314 and was financed by the Canterbury Provincial Council.

The light was first lit on 1st July, 1878 and served Timaru as the main harbour light until 1970.

In 1980 it was moved from it's original position at No. 7 The Terrace to it's present location and restored by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust. It now serves as a rear leading beacon for entry into the port.

If anyone has any information on this light please contact me. kiwimark@comcast.net

DIRECTIONS:

From Hwy 1 in Timaru, take the Caroline Bay Road, turn on Te Weka Street, turn right onto Benvenue Avenue. Lighthouse is on the right.

Text and photographs. Copyright © 1999-2005 Mark Phillips. All rights reserved.