Photo: Matthew Cattin
It is said the greywacke of Cape Brett’s tip, illuminated by sunlight, guided migratory waka to Aotearoa. Centuries later, the light planted on its crown welcomed ships from the Americas and beyond.
Those who tended this light experienced a lifestyle now marooned in history, a life of isolation, exposure to the elements, vigilant duty and resourcefulness. 67 families in all, braved isolation to fulfil their maritime duty.
For almost a decade in the 1930s and 40s the seven Jamieson children called Cape Brett home – a place of adventure, danger, wildlife and even school.
Writer Matthew Cattin interviews their direct descendants to learn what life at the lighthouse was like.
Missed Friday’s feature? 91-year-old on cusp of setting Appalachian Trail thru-hiking record, Kahurangi’s Graham Valley Rd reopens early, the return of Canada's breathtaking must-see hike and more in last week’s The World Outdoors.
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This month in tramping history
Dingle and Tremain’s traverse of the Southern Alps
5 July 1971
On 5 July 1971, after months of preparation, Graeme Dingle and Jill Tremain, experienced mountaineers in their mid-20s, began the first winter traverse of the Southern Alps.
Beginning on the Milford Track, they battled through rugged terrain for 100 days. In their attempt to cross Fyfe Pass near Aoraki Mt Cook, Dingle was lucky to survive an avalanche. Appalling weather kept them trapped in remote huts for extended periods. When the expedition terminated at Nelson Lakes, the pair kayaked the Wairau River to Blenheim.
Current Issue - September 2026 Great Walks special issue
Get a free gear Checklist printed on 250gsm card with the September Great Walks special issue. Also inside, Which Great Walk is right for you, tips and advice from those who have done them, plus the birds and plants to spot on your Great Walk adventure.
Photo of the week 📸
This week’s photo comes from Derry Culverwell who discovered these patterns in the sand “shaped by wind, tide and time” at Wharariki Beach in Golden Bay.
This photo was one of our Walk1200km #microchallenge winners from June of 2026.
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