FOR IMMEDIATE USE – OCTOBER 2025.
LABOUR DAY – OPEN DAY- Monday 27th October, 10AM- 4PM
Wellington’s historic Wrights Hill Fortress in Karori will be opened for public inspection again on LABOUR DAY, Monday 27th October, one of the official functions of Wellington Heritage Festival. 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. 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 CASH ONLY- $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. Please wear strong footwear.
A BBQ sausage sizzle and soft drinks will be on sale. Make it a fun day for the family.