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East Cape Lighthouse in Gisborne, gisborne, New Zealand
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East Cape Lighthouse

East Cape Lighthouse — Viewpoint in Gisborne, gisborne.

Viewpoint · Lookout in Gisborne

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA)

Mia & Tom HartleyWritten by Mia & Tom Hartley· Updated Apr 2026

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About East Cape Lighthouse

Perched atop Otiki Hill above East Cape, this is the easternmost lighthouse on mainland New Zealand and among the first places in the world to see the sunrise each day. Reaching the lighthouse requires climbing approximately 700 wooden steps, rewarding walkers with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged East Cape coastline.

About

Perched atop Otiki Hill above East Cape, this is the easternmost lighthouse on mainland New Zealand and among the first places in the world to see the sunrise each day. Reaching the lighthouse requires climbing approximately 700 wooden steps, rewarding walkers with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged East Cape coastline.

East Cape Lighthouse in Gisborne, gisborne, New Zealand

Quick Facts

At a Glance

The Place

Significance
National

Plan Your Visit

Entry
Free
Duration
1-2 hours
Best Time
October to April (arrive before dawn for first sunrise)

Location

Region
Gisborne
State
Gisborne

Highlights

First Sunrise On Mainland NZ700-Step ClimbPanoramic Pacific Ocean ViewsHistoric Lighthouse (1922)

Activities

HikingPhotographySunrise Viewing

Features

Not available:Wheelchair Accessible
Not available:Dog Friendly
Not available:Pram/Stroller Friendly
Not available:Camping Available
Not available:Tours Available
Not available:Guided Walks
Not available:Swimming Allowed
Not available:Lockers Available

Facilities

ParkingToilets

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