Nugget Point Lighthouse: There had been significant concern about Nugget Point, especially for small vessels trading near the Clutha River. The historic lighthouse perches above the famous rocks that Captain Cook named Nugget Point because they resemble gold pieces. This place is situated on a precipitous headland, and the lighthouse is encircled by rocky islets known as the Nuggets.
Construction of the lighthouse began in 1869, and operations began on July 4, 1870. The tower stands 249 feet above the water and was built from locally quarried stone. The lighthouse was powered by an oil burner until 1949, when it was converted to a 1000-watt lamp powered by a diesel generator, and until 1960, when it was wired for electricity from the mains. Since 1989, Maritime New Zealand has operated it computer-monitored and automated.
Nugget Point View: There are many iconic landforms along the Otago coast, but Nugget Point stands out among them. The site is located just north of Kaka Point along the Catlins coast. There are many seabirds at the point, including penguins, gannets, and royal spoonbills, as well as a large breeding colony of fur seals. Yellow-eyed penguins live in Roaring Bay, at Nugget Point on the south coast.
Travel and tourism: Aside from the two easy walks to the viewing platform next to the lighthouse and to Roaring Bay, Nugget Point is advertised as a side trip from the Southern Scenic Route. There is traveler accommodation in Kaka Point, which is the closest village. There are two car parks at Nugget Point along Nugget Road, which are sealed throughout. An observation hide is located at the bottom of the car park, which leads to the Roaring Bay walk.
A return walk of 10–20 minutes is required. An accessible pathway leads to a viewing platform beside the Tokat Lighthouse; great seascapes can be seen from this viewpoint. The rock stacks in the area are home to a wide variety of wildlife, including several seabird species. A yellow-eyed penguin may be seen here, as well as fur seals, sea lions, and elephant seals (one of only a few places in the nation where these animals are regularly seen).
There are a number of cetaceans that can be seen from the shore, including migrating southern right whales, humpback whales, orcas, and endemic Hector’s dolphins. The New Zealand Department of Conservation has proposed a marine reserve twice, but it has proved controversial. Several small local populations that rely on fishing for their livelihoods have expressed opposition to the proposed reserve.
Several industry associations have also argued against it, including the Seafood Industry Council. The Nugget Point Resort and Spa is a boutique hotel located in Arthur’s Point, New Zealand. In this hotel, you will have the opportunity to experience this destination in a unique and unforgettable way. It is close to the stunning Coronet Peak Ski Area and within easy reach of central Queenstown.
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