Photo: Pacific Ocean Lighthouse Picture Castlepoint Wairarapa New Zealand

Facing the various moods of the Pacific Ocean on a daily basis, the Castlepoint Lighthouse situated along the Wairarapa coastline of New Zealand's North Island has been guiding mariners since 1913.

In 2001 the Castlepoint Lighthouse, situated along the Wairarapa coastline, faced an uncertain future following discussions between New Zealand authorities about whether it was necessary to keep it in operation.

An icon of the small Wairarapa community of Castlepoint, the lighthouse was also a vital navagational tool. It was the first sign of landfall for shipping traffic from Panama and North America bound for Wellington with a beam of light reaching across the Pacific Ocean for 26 nautical miles.

Sunset at Castlepoint Lighthouse which overlooks the lagoon and bay, Castlepoint, Wairarapa, North Island, New Zealand.

This picture is part of the photo album "Sunset Pictures" - there are more beautiful images waiting for you.