Leaning Christchurch lighthouse guided to its own safe waters
A symbol of safety in Christchurch's port for 130 years has returned to its rightful home after close to a decade in storage.
The region's September 2010 earthquake left the Lyttelton Lighthouse leaning over precariously after the foundations of the harbour’s eastern mole on which it stood subsided almost two metres.
It rested that way for eight months, tilting at an angle of 15 degrees – four times that of the Leaning Tower of Pisa – until it was rescued in May 2011. It was then carried by barge across the harbour to safe land, stored carefully near the entrance to the Lyttelton Tunnel.
With the mole, or breakwater, repaired as part of the project to build a cruise-ship berth in Lyttelton, the lighthouse was last week returned to its original spot and affixed to new foundations.
International shipping regulations mean the lighthouse will be off-limits to the public, although people will have a good view of it from nearby Naval Point – and of course from the sea.
And while its days as a navigation necessity came to an end in the early 1990s, the glow of its paraffin lamp replaced by modern lights, the Lyttelton Lighthouse will still shine out across the harbour.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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59.4% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26.1% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.5% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
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