Cape Foulwind Lighthouse, 7892, West Coast Region, New Zealand
The original tower was built of rimu but over time began to rot. A new concrete tower was built in the mid 1920s and was lit for the first time in 1926. The original light in the new tower was an automatic acetone powered light. It was very efficient and only needed refuelling twice a year. Due to its automatic operation the final lighthouse keeper left in 1926. Then in the 1950s the acetone light was changed to electricity which simplified maintenance even more.
Now the lighthouse beacon is LED and is mounted on the balcony. It is powered from battery banks which are charged by solar panels.
Epic New Zealand Culture & Adventure Route © Monika Newbound