FOR IMMEDIATE USE – OCTOBER 2023
Wellington’s historic Wrights Hill Fortress in Karori will be opened for public inspection again on LABOUR DAY, Monday 23rd October, the first official day of Wellington Heritage week The World War Two coastal battery will be accessible between 10am and 4pm.
On LABOUR Day people are invited to self-guide themselves through the tunnels and gun emplacements. The walk usually takes about one hour and there will 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.
On show will be historic photos, and some military weapons. A DVD of how a 9.2-inch gun operates will be showing as well. There will also be blank firing under strict supervision outside for a small charge.
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. Try walking from the base of the hill.
On sale will be a limited number of copies of a history book “ Wrights Hill” by historian Peter Cooke. Cost = $40.00, CASH ONLY . There will be a BBQ sausage sizzle and soft drinks on sale. Make it a fun day for the family. Please wear stout footwear.