Last updated July 2026
The Pencarrow Coast Road is a popular shared trail that runs from Burdan’s Gate at the southern end of Eastbourne along the eastern shore of Wellington Harbour to New Zealand’s first permanent lighthouse. The route follows a wide metalled track through East Harbour Regional Park, offering expansive harbour views and finishing at the heritage-listed Old Pencarrow Head Lighthouse. At 7km one-way, it provides an easy, flat outing suitable for walkers and cyclists, though the area is notably exposed to wind. The trail continues beyond the lighthouse for those seeking a longer outing to nearby coastal lakes.
Practical Information
| Distance | 7km one-way to lighthouse (14km return); trail extends further |
| Walk time | 2–3 hours one-way on foot |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Surface | Wide metalled/gravel road; short grass track to lighthouse |
| Starting point | Burdan’s Gate, end of Muritai Road, Eastbourne |
| Cost | Free |
| Bikes | Permitted; hire available at gate in summer and on weekends |
| Dogs | On lead from 31 October to 31 July to lower lighthouse; no dogs 1 August to 30 October |
| Wind exposure | Very exposed — north-westerlies and southerlies can be strong |
About Pencarrow Coast Road
The Pencarrow Coast Road forms part of East Harbour Regional Park and runs along a narrow coastal strip between the harbour and steep bush-covered hills. The wide metalled surface makes it straightforward to follow, with gentle grades throughout most of the route. Wellington Harbour lies to the west, providing constant water views, while the eastern side features regenerating coastal vegetation.
The trail reaches the Old Pencarrow Head Lighthouse after 7km. Built in 1859, this cast-iron tower was New Zealand’s first permanent lighthouse and guided ships into Wellington Harbour for many years. It is listed with Heritage New Zealand and remains a significant historic landmark on the headland. Mary Jane Bennett, New Zealand’s only female lighthouse keeper, operated the light for a period after her husband’s death.
From the lighthouse area, views extend across the harbour entrance toward Cook Strait and the South Island on clear days. A short side track leads up to the lighthouse itself for closer inspection.
Beyond the lighthouse, the route continues for approximately 2km to Lake Kohangatera, one of the Parangarahu Lakes. This coastal lagoon offers a quieter setting compared with the open harbour coastline.
Getting to Burdan’s Gate
Drive through Eastbourne and follow Muritai Road to its southern end, where parking is available at Burdan’s Gate. Public transport options include the ferry to Days Bay followed by a bus or walk to Eastbourne, then a further 2km south to the gate. Bike hire is available at the gate during summer and on weekends, allowing a faster return trip of around 1.5 hours by bicycle.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers and cyclists praise the consistent harbour views along the entire route and note that the lighthouse makes a satisfying destination. Many describe the trail as easy and family-friendly underfoot while emphasising the need for wind protection near the headland.
Visitors often highlight the flat, wide surface that suits a range of fitness levels and the historic interest of the lighthouse. Several mention combining the outing with a bike hire for a quicker round trip or extending to the lakes for a longer day.
Where to Learn More
Greater Wellington Regional Council — East Harbour Regional Park: official park information, track details, and access rules.
Heritage New Zealand — Pencarrow Lighthouse (Former): heritage listing and historical background on the lighthouse.
WellingtonNZ — Pencarrow Coast Road: trail description, conditions, and bike hire details.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is it to the lighthouse?
7km one-way from Burdan’s Gate; 14km return.
How long does it take?
2–3 hours one-way on foot, or about 1.5 hours return by bike.
Can I hire bikes?
Yes, bike hire is available at Burdan’s Gate during summer and on weekends.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs must be on a lead from 31 October to 31 July to the lower lighthouse; no dogs are permitted from 1 August to 30 October.
Is the trail suitable for prams or buggies?
The wide metalled road to the lighthouse is generally manageable for sturdy prams.
Is this New Zealand’s first lighthouse?
Yes — the Old Pencarrow Head Lighthouse, built in 1859, was the country’s first permanent lighthouse.
How windy is the route?
The area is very exposed. Bring warm layers and a wind jacket, as conditions near the headland are often stronger than in the city.
Can I extend the walk beyond the lighthouse?
Yes — a further 2km leads to Lake Kohangatera.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.