Cape Brett Lighthouse Track - Image 1
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Cape Brett Lighthouse Track

4.9
·48 reviews·Rawhiti, New Zealand

Hike to an iconic lighthouse and stay overnight in a historic keeper's hut with dramatic coastal views.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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Cape Brett Lighthouse Track - Image 1

Cape Brett Lighthouse Track

Best Time

Early morning

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Hike to an iconic lighthouse and stay overnight in a historic keeper's hut with dramatic coastal views.

4.9
(48 reviews)

"The views are stunning and I highly recommend the hike."

Vertical photo
TIP

💧 Pack Extra Water!

Seriously, bring at least 3L per person one way. You'll need it!

🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots

The terrain is rugged with steep inclines and descents. Good grip is essential.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cape Brett Lighthouse

Cape Brett Lighthouse

End of the track

Iconic lighthouse perched dramatically on the coast, offering breathtaking ocean panoramas.

Historic Lighthouse Keeper's Hut

Historic Lighthouse Keeper's Hut

Near the lighthouse

Stay overnight in this unique accommodation with unparalleled sea views.

Rugged Coastal Terrain

Rugged Coastal Terrain

Entire track

Experience dramatic cliffs, steep ascents, and native bush on this demanding but rewarding hike.

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Planning Your Visit

Hydration is Key!

This challenging 16km track offers stunning coastal views but little shade. Pack significantly more water than you think you'll need, as sources at the hut can be salty. Conserving water is crucial for a safe and enjoyable trek.

Bookings & Fees

Accessing the Cape Brett Lighthouse Track requires a $40 walking fee per person. Overnight stays at the historic lighthouse keeper's hut are an additional $25. Bookings for the hut are essential and fill up fast, especially during peak season.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Stop scrolling… lets go hiking!⛰️🌊 On the gorgeous Cape Brett Track in the Bay of Island! The perfect summer tramp to add to your list. The hut is in an old lighthouse keepers house looking over the ocean. Book it early so you don’t miss out! #capebrett #bayofislands #nzhiking
bee.rose.b
32 likes • 634 views

💧 Pack Extra Water!

Seriously, bring at least 3L per person one way. You'll need it! Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots

The terrain is rugged with steep inclines and descents. Good grip is essential. Instagram

Cape Brett Track Just Do It 🤪 #hike #travel #nz #cape #lighthouse #edgeoftheworld #hut #cardio #legday #armday #allbodyday
anyashirshova
8 likes • 151 views
Cape Brett Track. 16km of rugged terrain through native and regenerating bush with dramatic coastal views, including steep cliffs and drop-offs. Turn around and repeat in reverse. @kaitiaki_endurance_sports | @corebodytemp | @cotopaxi_nz | @hrv4training | @joyride.apparel | @macpac | @nuzest | @radixnutrition | @skinsnewzealand | @soshydrationnz | @suunto | @vivobarefootausnz | @sports_gear_reviv...
ben_eitel
14 likes • 276 views

📅 Book Hut Early

The lighthouse keeper's hut is popular. Book online well in advance! Instagram

💰 Walking Fee Required

Remember to factor in the $40 walking fee per person. Reddit

Sunrise at Cape Brett Lighthouse 🌅 #newzealand #capebrett #bayofislands #ocean #sunrise #lighthouse #travel #gonewzealand #travelnewzealand #northland #russel #rawhiti #photography #reel #holiday #track #capebretthut #hut #dnescestujem #czechkiwis #czechroamers #vanlife #backpackerslife #traveltheworld #czech #nz #nature #sun
sevecekmartin
37 likes • 607 views

Tips

from all over the internet

💧 Pack Extra Water!

Seriously, bring at least 3L per person one way. You'll need it! Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots

The terrain is rugged with steep inclines and descents. Good grip is essential. Instagram

📅 Book Hut Early

The lighthouse keeper's hut is popular. Book online well in advance! Instagram

💰 Walking Fee Required

Remember to factor in the $40 walking fee per person. Reddit

🚗 Parking Fee

Overnight parking near the trailhead costs $5 cash. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(48 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the breathtaking coastal views and the unique experience of staying at the historic lighthouse keeper's hut. The challenging nature of the hike is frequently mentioned, with many emphasizing the need for ample water and good fitness. While the trek is tough, the stunning scenery and remote location make it a highly recommended adventure.

"We joined the Cape Brett hiking trail from out anchorage at Maunganui Bay. We left at noon and returned at 7 pm! We stopped to rest quite a bit which is why it took us so long. It was a challenging hike as you ascend up pretty high then go all the way back down to sea level then back up again. The last 45 minutes we were walking in the afternoon sun with no shade. We took a 42 oz water bottle for the two of us, but it wasn't enough. We ran out with 1/3 of the hike left and that was with conserving water the entire time. Be sure to take plenty of water. The views are stunning and I highly recommend the hike."

Michelle Marshall

"Hands down the most challenging hike in Northland, New Zealand in my opinion. If you’re planning to hike Cape Brett be sure to bring at least 3L water one way not to mention water supply at the hutt is quite salty after boiled.

DOC states the hike is around 8 hours one way, but can be accomplished within 6-7hrs with a decent fitness level. So be prepared for some gruesome inclines and descending with the last hour towards the end being the most difficult.

Water taxi is also available from Deep water cove back to start at $70 (not worth the 10min ride) Lastly, there is a $40 walking fee plus $25 overnight hutt price.

Parking is available close to the start (119 Rawhiti Road) for $5 overnight as of Jan 2024. Just pay the uncle cash and be on your way!"

Carron L

"A beautiful view. There is a hut that you can book online and stay overnight. However the full hike is 8 hour long. You can find water taxis from Paihia to Deep water cove and have 2 hour hike to this amazing place"

Malitha Basuri

What People Like

Stunning coastal views
Unique hut stay
Remote location

What People Dislike

Challenging terrain
Lack of shade
Need for lots of water

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The main trailhead is at 119 Rawhiti Road. You can also access it via Deep Water Cove, which is a popular starting point for those using water taxis. Parking is available at Rawhiti Road for a small overnight fee. Reddit

Public transport options directly to the trailhead are limited. Most visitors drive or arrange private transport. Water taxis are a common option from Paihia or Russell to Deep Water Cove. Reddit

No, the Cape Brett Lighthouse Track is a hiking-only trail. Vehicle access is restricted. Instagram

You can start from Rawhiti Road for the full 16km experience, or take a water taxi to Deep Water Cove and hike from there, which is a shorter but still challenging 2.5-hour trek each way. Reddit

While there aren't official shuttle services, some local operators might offer transport. It's best to arrange this in advance. Water taxis are the most common alternative transport. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is a $40 walking fee per person to access the track. If you plan to stay overnight in the lighthouse keeper's hut, there's an additional $25 fee per person. Reddit

Yes, booking the Cape Brett Hut online in advance is highly recommended, as it's a very popular and unique accommodation. Spots fill up quickly! Instagram

The track is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, it's a challenging hike, so starting early is advised. Instagram

Information on specific group or family discounts isn't widely advertised. It's best to check the official booking website for any available packages or contact the relevant authorities. Reddit

It's advisable to pay the walking fee in advance online to ensure smooth entry. While some fees might be payable on arrival, pre-booking is always safer. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The full 16km track is estimated to take around 8 hours return for most hikers. However, with good fitness, it can be done in 6-7 hours. Starting from Deep Water Cove significantly reduces the time. Reddit+1

This is considered a challenging hike due to its length, steep ascents and descents, and rugged terrain. It's often described as one of the toughest in Northland. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is a historic lighthouse keeper's hut available for overnight stays. It's equipped with basic amenities like water for boiling and cooking facilities. Instagram

There is very little shade on large sections of the track, especially towards the end. Be prepared for sun exposure, particularly in the afternoon. Reddit

While there are opportunities to swim, it's important to be aware of the conditions and currents. The remote location means no lifeguards are present. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Sunrise and sunset offer spectacular light for photography, with the lighthouse and coastline bathed in golden hues. Early mornings also provide fewer crowds. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views and the lighthouse. A sturdy tripod can be useful for sunrise/sunset shots. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local authorities or DOC (Department of Conservation) for current rules and restrictions before flying a drone in the area. Instagram

The lighthouse itself, the dramatic cliff edges, and panoramic ocean vistas are prime photography locations. The hut also offers unique shots. Instagram

While you can see the general area of the Hole in the Rock, it's quite distant from Cape Brett. Dedicated boat tours offer closer views. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Cape Brett Lighthouse Track is a challenging hike, and while rewarding, it may not be suitable for very young children or families seeking an easy outing. The 16km distance, steep inclines, and lack of shade require a good level of fitness and stamina. Instagram

If your family is experienced with long hikes and your children are accustomed to strenuous activity, it can be a memorable adventure. However, consider the water requirements and the potential for fatigue. For a less demanding experience, exploring the Bay of Islands via boat tours that visit the Hole in the Rock might be a more appropriate option. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

The Cape Brett Lighthouse Track offers a relatively affordable adventure if you're prepared. The main costs are the $40 walking fee and the $5 overnight parking fee if needed. Reddit Staying overnight in the hut adds $25, which is a bargain for such a unique experience compared to standard accommodation. Reddit

To save money, pack all your own food and water. While water taxis are available, they are an added expense ($70 mentioned for a short ride), so hiking the full distance is the most budget-friendly approach. Reddit+1

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Cape Brett is a photographer's paradise, especially for landscape and nature lovers. The dramatic coastal scenery, the iconic lighthouse, and the potential for stunning sunrises and sunsets make it a prime location. Instagram

Bring your wide-angle lenses to capture the expansive ocean views and the rugged coastline. A tripod will be invaluable for low-light conditions during dawn and dusk. Be prepared for a hike to get to these incredible vantage points, but the photographic rewards are well worth the effort. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Cape Brett Lighthouse Keeper's Hut Experience

Staying overnight at the Cape Brett Hut is a highlight for many visitors. This historic keeper's house offers a truly remote and immersive experience, with the lighthouse as your neighbor and the vast Pacific Ocean as your view. The hut is equipped with basic cooking facilities and water for boiling, but remember to bring your own food and sleeping gear. Booking this unique accommodation is essential and should be done well in advance, as it's a highly sought-after spot. Instagram+1

The journey to the hut is part of the adventure, typically involving a challenging 16km hike. However, the reward is immense: waking up to stunning sunrises over the ocean and enjoying the tranquility of this isolated location. It's an opportunity to disconnect and appreciate the raw beauty of the New Zealand coastline. InstagramReddit

Visitors often describe the experience as unforgettable, emphasizing the incredible views and the sense of peace. It's a chance to step back in time and imagine life as a lighthouse keeper, surrounded by the sounds of the sea. Reddit

Navigating the Challenging Terrain

The Cape Brett Lighthouse Track is renowned for its demanding nature. Spanning 16 kilometers, it involves significant ascents and descents, testing the endurance of even fit hikers. The path winds through native and regenerating bush, with sections of steep, rugged terrain and dramatic coastal drop-offs. Instagram

Hikers consistently advise packing plenty of water, as there's minimal shade and the journey can be arduous, especially in warmer weather. The last hour of the hike is often cited as the most difficult, requiring a final push to reach the lighthouse. Reddit

Proper footwear is crucial. Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are essential to navigate the uneven surfaces, loose gravel, and slippery sections that can occur after rain. Taking your time, pacing yourself, and being prepared for a strenuous workout are key to successfully completing this iconic New Zealand hike. InstagramReddit

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