The point is geologically new, having been modified during the 1855 Wairarapa earthquake, in which land was uplifted by two to three metres. It can be reached through Island Bay, Houghton Bay via Melrose, or Lyall Bay. The point is used for diving, walking, scenic photography, relaxation, picnics, eco-tourism, nature study, and astronomy. The point is relatively free of light pollution, with little nearby population, no street lighting, and low adjacent population causing sky glow in the southern direction of Cook Strait. The lessened light pollution means that Aurora Australis displays are sometimes visible. It is one of the few undeveloped coastal places within Wellington city. Artists such as Bruce Stewart and Nick Dryden are inspired by this location.