FOR IMMEDIATE USE … APRIL 2023
ANZAC DAY OPEN DAY- TUESDAY 25 TH APRIL 10AM – 4PM
Wellington’s historic Wrights Hill Fortress in Karori will be open for
public inspection again on ANZAC Day, Tuesday April 25th. The
World War Two coastal battery first opened to the public in 1989,
and will be accessible between 10am and 4pm.
On ANZAC Day people are invited to self-guide themselves through
the tunnels and gun emplacements. The walk usually takes about
one hour and there may also be a number of guided tours during the
day. Bring a torch with you for some fun!
Visitors will be able to explore the 620 metres of underground
tunnels with a free map and history pamphlet. They will see the
engine room, shell stores, plotting rooms and the huge gun pit
where Gun Number 1 used to stand, as well as a replica of the 10
metre-long gun barrel.
Also on show will be historic photos, and an assortment of military
weapons. A DVD of how a 9.2-inch gun operates will be showing as
well.
Wrights Hill Fortress was built from 1942 to protect Wellington from
Japanese bombardment. In the early 1960’s, the guns were cut up
for scrap and sold, ironically, to the Japanese.
Admission is $20 for a family of two adults and three children under
15, or $10 per adult and $5 per child. (CASH ONLY). Access is via
Karori Road, Campbell Street, and Wrights Hill Road. All proceeds go
to the continuing restoration of the Fortress. There is limited car
parking at the summit of the Hill.
Visitors to the Fortress in Wrights Hill Reserve can also enjoy bush
walks, picnic sites and panoramic views from the top of the hill.
There will also be a BBQ sausage sizzle and soft drinks on sale –
strong footwear please and no jandals.