“An easy climb through pōhutukawa forest and lava fields gives way to panoramic views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf from the summit of this volcanic island.”
Rangitoto has a range of walking tracks from 15 minutes to 2 hours, reasonable fitness is required.
For many people this iconic volcanic island is a symbol of Auckland, visible from so many vantage points and always a delight to catch sight of. Having erupted out of the sea a mere 600 or so years ago, it’s also the youngest island in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf and taking the ferry over makes for a splendid day trip. With plenty of information panels dotted about the place to explain the geology, flora and fauna as well as Maori history and connection to the island, it’s quite another world from the bustling city.
The historic holiday homes are another element that delight many visitors, so, do pop your nose into quaint little Bach 38 if it’s open, this tiny home doubles as the island’s museum and information centre.
Taking 25 minutes to get to the island on a Fullers ferry from Downtown Auckland, there are three departures on weekdays, at 9:15am, 10:30am and 12:15pm and two additional departures each weekend at 7:30am and 1:30pm. Returning to the mainland on weekdays at 12:45pm, 2:30pm and 3:30pm and on weekends at 12:45pm, 2:30pm and 4pm. Fares are $30 for adults and $15 for children and some sailings stop in at Devonport - which is a little excursion in it’s own right. And make sure you’re not late for the last sailing to Auckland as there are no hotels or restaurants on Rangitoto.
Combining some boardwalks and some rocky paths, the shorter route to the top starts at the wharf where the ferry drops you off and ascends across rough scoria and through glades of native trees including the pohutukawa. When you reach the peak, 259m above sea level, you’ll find yourself faced with beautiful views of the Hauraki Gulf and Auckland city.
As you walk around the crater, try to imagine that night all those years ago when the island was little more than a boiling sea of molten lava. As it can get mighty hot in summer, take plenty of water, for the walk, and a picnic for when you reach the top is also recommended Lava Caves Track 15 minutes extra from the Summit Track Look for the sign from the summit track pointing to the lava caves and have a little explore of these tunnels, but bring a torch as there are some places there that the sun just doesn’t shine.
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Rangitoto Island Walks
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- Sun, Sat: 7:30 am - 4:00 pm
- Mon - Fri: 9:15 am - 3:30 pm
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