Exploring New Zealand’s WWII Coastal Defences — Bunkers, Batteries & Forts

 

A Nation on Watch

During WWII, New Zealand feared attack from the sea. The result? A network of bunkers, tunnels, and gun batteries along the coastline. Many remain today — silent but powerful reminders of that anxious era.

Here are the top WWII coastal defence sites to explore in New Zealand.

1. Godley Head (Christchurch)

  • Major defence site with gun emplacements and barracks.

  • Overlooks Lyttelton Harbour.

2. Fort Taiaroa (Otago Peninsula)

  • Home to the world’s last operational Armstrong Disappearing Gun.

  • Historic tunnels and guided tours.

3. Stony Batter (Waiheke Island)

  • Secret WWII fortress beneath Waiheke vineyards.

  • Maze of tunnels built by hand.

4. North Head (Auckland, Devonport)

  • Easily accessible site with bunkers and panoramic harbour views.

  • Torch recommended for tunnel exploring!

5. Fort Jervois (Ripapa Island, Christchurch)

  • Island fort built in the 1880s, reused in WWII.

❓ FAQs

Q: Can you visit these bunkers today?
Yes — many are open to the public, with guided tours at some.

Q: Which site is most famous?
Fort Taiaroa, thanks to its disappearing gun.

👉 Walk through wartime tunnels and coastal batteries with HonourBound.co.nz.

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