Fodor's Expert Review Cape Palliser
Named by Captain Cook, Cape Palliser marks the eastern end of Palliser Bay. You cannot miss its candy-stripe classic lighthouse, which was erected in 1897. Climb the 250 (the sign says 258) wooden steps for terrific views up and down the wild coastline. Below the lighthouse, splashing in the surf are members of the North Island's only fur seal colony. Don't get too close for photos though; these animals are fiercely protective of their young. Department of Conservation rules require you to keep 20 meters (22 yards) from seals, so don't get between seals and pups, or seals and the ocean. To reach it from Martinborough, start at Memorial Square and turn left into Jellicoe Street, this becomes Lake Ferry Road. After 30 km (18½ miles), turn left at the Cape Palliser road sign; from here it is another 35 km (21½ miles) to the cape itself. You will pass the Putangirua Pinnacles on your left; after this, the road deteriorates and is unpaved in places. It is a stark and dramatic... READ MORE
Named by Captain Cook, Cape Palliser marks the eastern end of Palliser Bay. You cannot miss its candy-stripe classic lighthouse, which was erected in 1897. Climb the 250 (the sign says 258) wooden steps for terrific views up and down the wild coastline. Below the lighthouse, splashing in the surf are members of the North Island's only fur seal colony. Don't get too close for photos though; these animals are fiercely protective of their young. Department of Conservation rules require you to keep 20 meters (22 yards) from seals, so don't get between seals and pups, or seals and the ocean. To reach it from Martinborough, start at Memorial Square and turn left into Jellicoe Street, this becomes Lake Ferry Road. After 30 km (18½ miles), turn left at the Cape Palliser road sign; from here it is another 35 km (21½ miles) to the cape itself. You will pass the Putangirua Pinnacles on your left; after this, the road deteriorates and is unpaved in places. It is a stark and dramatic drive, though not particularly hard if you take care. The travel time from Martinborough is approximately 80 minutes.
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