Te Rama Roa (Lightkeeper`s Cottage)

Stay in a beautifully restored former Lighthouse Keeper`s cottage with a new name, Te Rama Roa, meaning Beacon of Light. With views over Cook Strait and the Kaikōura Ranges, the cottage features retro 1970’s styling, three bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and accessible bathroom.

Please note that this accommodation is subject to cancellation between January and April due to potential fire season risks. We will provide as much notice as possible and will provide a refund if cancelled.

Located within the heritage listed Baring Head lighthouse complex, the cottage and this part of East Harbour Regional Park feels like a world away but is only an hour from central Wellington.

The cottage is one of two former lightkeepers dwellings that were built in 1935. The cottage is a seaside sanctuary sheltering you from the rugged coastal elements.

Simply step outside to walk or cycle around the network of tracks, stroll along remote wild beaches, climb to the trig and WWII observation post, or learn about the history of the area in the Story Hub next door.

At the end of your day, enjoy striking sunsets over Wellington Harbour and Cook Strait.

The cottage itself features retro 1970’s styling, three bedrooms (two queen beds and two singles) a kitchen, and accessible bathroom. The main living area is furnished with a vintage three-piece lounge suite draped in funky crochet blankets, and a selection of boardgames to keep you entertained. An additional sitting room has two chairs with a view over the ocean – a perfect spot for your morning coffee.

Is there heating?
The cottage has underfloor heating and a heat pump.

Is there Wi-Fi?
Baring Head does not have wifi, however there is cell phone service. We strongly encourage manuhiri (visitors) to take the opportunity to switch off and leave your phones in the kete on the coffee table (with the exception of a couple photos of course!).

Is Baring Head pet-friendly?
As much as we love fury friends, the area is strictly a no pet zone due to conservation efforts in the area. If you’re lucky, you may spot some wildlife during your stay including dolphins, whales and native birds.

The house Te Rama Roa is a private booking and all yours to enjoy for the duration of your stay. Privacy at the cottage is limited as the lighthouse complex is the main day visit destination within the park.

The Lightkeeper’s Cottage has a level ramp entry and no internal stairs. The bathroom features a modern wet room with handrails and a shower seat. Doorways are 700–760cm wide.

It’s a 180m walk from the guest carpark along a mostly flat gravel track with one small rise and a wide gate halfway. The lighthouse garden is generally flat but uneven with some trip hazards

No BBQs or fires.