
Cape Brett Lighthouse Track
Hike to an iconic lighthouse and stay overnight in a historic keeper's hut with dramatic coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Cape Brett Lighthouse Track
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to an iconic lighthouse and stay overnight in a historic keeper's hut with dramatic coastal views.
"The views are stunning and I highly recommend the hike."

💧 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cape Brett Lighthouse
End of the track
Iconic lighthouse perched dramatically on the coast, offering breathtaking ocean panoramas.

Historic Lighthouse Keeper's Hut
Near the lighthouse
Stay overnight in this unique accommodation with unparalleled sea views.

Rugged Coastal Terrain
Entire track
Experience dramatic cliffs, steep ascents, and native bush on this demanding but rewarding hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Hydration is Key!
Bookings & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 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.
📅 Book Hut Early
The lighthouse keeper's hut is popular. Book online well in advance!
💰 Walking Fee Required
Remember to factor in the $40 walking fee per person.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 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.
📅 Book Hut Early
The lighthouse keeper's hut is popular. Book online well in advance!
💰 Walking Fee Required
Remember to factor in the $40 walking fee per person.
🚗 Parking Fee
Overnight parking near the trailhead costs $5 cash.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
No, the Cape Brett Lighthouse Track is a hiking-only trail. Vehicle access is restricted.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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!
The track is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, it's a challenging hike, so starting early is advised.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
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.
There is very little shade on large sections of the track, especially towards the end. Be prepared for sun exposure, particularly in the afternoon.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer spectacular light for photography, with the lighthouse and coastline bathed in golden hues. Early mornings also provide fewer crowds.
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.
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.
The lighthouse itself, the dramatic cliff edges, and panoramic ocean vistas are prime photography locations. The hut also offers unique shots.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Cape Brett Lighthouse Keeper's Hut Experience
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.
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.
Navigating the Challenging Terrain
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.
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.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit