WRIGHTS HILL FORTRESS
OPEN DAY
SUNDAY 25 APRIL 2004
ANZAC DAY
This World War Two fortress is the only one of its type open to the public in New Zealand, albeit only four times a year.
Located in the Wrights Hill reserve in Karori, amongst bush walks and picnic sites visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the region from the top of Wrights Hill.
While it is a peaceful spot these days the original intent was to protect Wellington from invasion or bombardment by Japanese forces.
Built in 1942, two 9.2 inch guns were installed in 1944 but never fired in anger.
Test firings in 1946 and '47 resulted in nothing more serious than many broken windows at the fortress.
Although maintained as a training base after WWII, it was eventually closed down in the 1960's and its two monster guns, 10 metres in length, sold as scrap.
The site is now maintained by the Wrights Hill Fortress Restoration Society and thanks to their efforts Open Day Visitors can roam the 620 metres of underground tunnels, view the engine room, shell stores, plotting rooms and huge gun emplacement where Gun No One used to stand.
A replica of the gun barrel will be on display on open days, and other historical material and videos.
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