FOR IMMEDIATE USE – MAY/JUNE 2022.
QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY– OPEN DAY
MONDAY 6th JUNE, 10AM- 4PM
Wellington’s historic Wrights Hill Fortress in Karori will be reopening
for public inspection again on Queens Birthday, Monday 6th June.
The World War Two coastal battery first opened to the public in
1989, and will be accessible between 10am and 4pm.
COVID 19 has caused cancellations over the past two years. Please
wear a mask inside, as directed by the Government under level
ORANGE.
On Queen’s Birthday people are invited to self-guide themselves
through the tunnels and gun emplacements. The walk usually takes
about one hour, so 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. The World War Two Fortress is the only one of its type in New
Zealand available to the public on five Open Days a year.
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. (Sorry no EFTPOS). 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. Please park sensibly and use the walking tracks.
Visitors can also enjoy picnic sites and panoramic views from the top
of the hill. There will be a BBQ sausage sizzle and soft drinks on sale.
Make it a fun day for the family. Stout footwear advised!
Remember= CASH ONLY.