Last updated July 2026
The Pencarrow Coast offers an easy 7-kilometre coastal track from Burdans Gate in Eastbourne to New Zealand’s first permanent lighthouse. The wide, flat metalled path runs through East Harbour Regional Park along Wellington Harbour, providing harbour views and access to the historic site. Walkers and cyclists of most fitness levels enjoy the route, which is exposed to strong winds. Bike hire is available seasonally at the start point.
Practical Information
| Start point | Burdans Gate, end of Muritai Road, Eastbourne — parking, toilets and picnic tables available |
| Distance to lighthouse | 6.7km one-way |
| Time by bike (return) | About 1.5–2 hours |
| Time on foot (return) | About 3–4 hours |
| Surface | Wide metalled (gravel) track — flat and well maintained |
| Difficulty | Easy — flat with no significant elevation gain to the lighthouse |
| Bike hire | Available at Burdans Gate during summer and holiday weekends |
| Entry cost | Free |
| Facilities | Toilets at Burdans Gate; no facilities en route — bring food and water |
| Conditions | Very exposed to wind — be prepared for strong headwinds |
| Dogs | Must be on a leash south of Burdans Gate to the lower lighthouse between 31 October and 31 July; no dogs 1 August to 30 October |
About the Pencarrow Coast
The track follows the coastline south from Burdans Gate through East Harbour Regional Park, with Wellington Harbour on one side and the steep hills of the Remutaka Range on the other. The surface is wide and flat, a former coastal road suitable for mountain bikes, road bikes with moderate tyres, and walkers. Scenery changes from the sheltered upper harbour to more open coast near the lighthouse and Cook Strait entrance.
The Old Pencarrow Head Lighthouse was New Zealand’s first permanent lighthouse. It was lit on 1 January 1859 and operated until 1935. Mary Jane Bennett served as its keeper, New Zealand’s only female lighthouse keeper. The structure is now maintained by Heritage New Zealand as a historic place and popular visitor destination. A second lighthouse sits on the ridge above, accessible via a steeper side track with elevated views across Cook Strait.
Past the lighthouse the track continues toward the Parangarahu Lakes area, including Lake Kohangatera behind the dunes. The full out-and-back to the lakes from Burdans Gate is a longer ride or walk. The route is very exposed, with coastal winds that can be strong even on calm days, so bring warm layers, wind protection and sun protection.
Access and Safety
Burdans Gate is reached by road or ferry to Eastbourne followed by a short walk or ride. Parking, toilets and picnic tables are available at the gate. The track has no facilities beyond the start, and there is no public access beyond the lakes area to Baring Head without landowner permission. Strong winds are common; check conditions before setting out and carry sufficient water and food.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors describe the ride or walk as flat and scenic with excellent harbour views the whole way. Many note the wind can be challenging on the return but find the lighthouse and history worthwhile. Bike hire at the gate is convenient for those without their own bikes.
Walkers and cyclists appreciate the easy access to the historic lighthouse and the chance to learn about its first keeper. Reviewers recommend bringing snacks and layers due to the lack of facilities and exposure to the elements.
Where to Learn More
Greater Wellington Regional Council — East Harbour Regional Park: official details on tracks, access, dog rules, facilities and conditions.
Heritage New Zealand — Pencarrow Lighthouse (Former): history, significance and details of New Zealand’s first permanent lighthouse.
WellingtonNZ — Pencarrow Coast Road: track overview, distances and planning information from the official tourism site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Pencarrow Coast track start?
At Burdans Gate at the end of Muritai Road in Eastbourne. Parking, toilets and picnic tables are available there.
How far is the Pencarrow Lighthouse from Burdans Gate?
Approximately 6.7km one-way. The return trip takes about 1.5–2 hours by bike or 3–4 hours on foot.
Can I hire bikes at Pencarrow?
Yes, bike hire is available at Burdans Gate during summer and on holiday weekends. Availability is seasonal, so check ahead.
Is the Pencarrow Coast track suitable for children?
The flat, wide track suits older children on bikes. Strong winds can make longer distances challenging for younger children on foot.
What is the history of the Pencarrow Lighthouse?
The cast-iron lighthouse, lit on 1 January 1859, was New Zealand’s first permanent lighthouse. It operated until 1935 and was kept for a time by Mary Jane Bennett, the country’s only female lighthouse keeper. It is now maintained by Heritage New Zealand.
Are there any facilities along the Pencarrow track?
Toilets and picnic facilities are only at Burdans Gate. Bring all food, water, wind protection and sun protection as the track is very exposed.
Are dogs allowed on the Pencarrow Coast track?
Dogs must be on a leash from Burdans Gate to the lower lighthouse between 31 October and 31 July. No dogs are allowed on the track from 1 August to 30 October.
Can I continue past the lighthouse?
The track continues toward the Parangarahu Lakes, including Lake Kohangatera. Access beyond the lakes to Baring Head requires landowner permission.
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