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Peninsula in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Photo: Danielle van Strien - User: (WT-shared) Dvstrien at wts wikivoyage, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Cape Brett is an isolated promontory in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand, that can be reached by boat or by hiking the 16.3-km Cape Brett Track. It features a lighthouse that was built in 1909, and accommodation is in what was a lighthouse keeper's cottage. The cape is 26 km north-west of Russell.
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Built in 1909
This used to be the lighthouse keeper's cottage. It has 23 bunk beds and toilets. The kitchen has running water and gas cookers. There is no shower, but you can wash at the taps outside if you're not too shy. Bring a flashlight or some candles for lighting, a sleeping bag and cooking utensils. The mattresses all have a plastic cover, so bringing a sheet is a good idea to make it a bit more comfortable. Hut bookings are essential. Use the Department of Conservation's on-line booking system or book through the Paihia i-SITE. The hut is locked and you will be given the combination lock code after full payment has been received.
By boat
Water taxis can drop you off either at Cape Brett (only possible in calm sea conditions) or at Deep Water Cove. It is a 2.5-hour hike to reach Cape Brett from Deep Water Cove.
By foot
A more strenuous (yet very rewarding) way to reach Cape Brett is via the Cape Brett Track, which starts from Oke Bay, Rawhiti, 29 km from Russell.
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