Brace yourselves for a tale of perseverance. It is a tale of engineering against the odds at Karori Rock Light. This iconic structure stands as a testament to human ingenuity. It marks a crucial point for vessels navigating the Cook Strait.
Karori Rock Light’s story begins with tragedy. The sinking of the Steamer Penguin in 1909 highlighted the need for a light here. After much deliberation, Karori Rock was chosen as the site. Construction started in June 1913.
Imagine the scene. A tiny rock, just 400 square feet. It is constantly battered by southerly swells. Only six men could work on it at a time. The construction was supervised by Mr. Frazer, the Marine Department lighthouse superintendent, and Mr. Johnson, the job foreman.
The work was incredibly challenging. The team had to drill into the rock for reinforcing rods. These rods would hold the wooden framework for the concrete foundation. Even one-inch bolts couldn’t always withstand the heavy seas. On at least one occasion, the entire framework was washed away.
A concrete mixer was set up on the mainland. A small jetty was built to transport the concrete. The concrete was poured into drums. Ten drums held about three-quarters of a cubic yard. A small crane lifted the drums off the launch. It poured the concrete on site. On a good day, they could pour about eight cubic yards.
The Karori Rock Light tower is cylindrical. It measures 20 feet by 10 feet at the base. It is 15 feet by 10 feet at the top. The tower rises 39 feet above the rock. One side was deliberately built on an angle. This design provided extra strength against the fierce winds. Steps were formed in the concrete on the sloped side. A metal ladder was attached.
An Aga lantern from Sweden topped the tower. This lantern used acetone acetylene to fuel the light. The light had a character of one-half second every three and a half seconds. It displayed 2790 candlepower. The light could be seen for nine nautical miles.
The lighthouse tender Hinemoa delivered equipment and stores. Fresh meat and bread were packed in on horseback from Makara.
Karori Rock Light was first lit on October 20, 1915. Servicing the lighthouse was difficult due to the swells. Gas cylinders were regularly changed.
In May 1996, the light was replaced by a new Vega 250 flashing beacon. It was placed on the mainland at Tongue Point. The original Karori Rock lens still remains in the tower.
Karori Rock Light stands as a symbol of resilience. Its construction was a feat of engineering. The light guided ships for over 80 years. The lighthouse reminds us of the challenges faced by those who built it. Its legacy continues to shine brightly in maritime history.