Rangitoto Island

This near symmetrical Volcanic Island, its profile synonymous with Auckland’s Inner Harbour, bears a name descriptive and definitive. Rangitoto means sky raining with blood. That is exactly what early Maori may have seen when the youngest of Auckland’s Volcanos erupted into being a mere 800 years ago. However, the Island did not get its name from its dramatic birth. The island is the scene of a famous pre-European scrap between Tainui and Te Arawa Iwi, the name springing from a longwinded description of a blood nose experienced by one of the Chiefs at that time.

After that, Rangitoto was mainly unoccupied, and continued forming its own interesting ecosystems based on the volcanic rock, the abundance of Pohutakawa trees and a smattering of other rare native plants including ferns and orchids. Europeans took an interest in the island but only a cursory one, first using it as a penal colony then later building a few holiday homes here in the twentieth century.

Now, it is a Regional Park, the daily ferry takes interested visitors to the island’s wharf for sightseeing, most choosing to walk to the crater. The numerous paths through the volcanic rock to interesting points such as the lava caves and bird colonies were originally built by convict occupants. Several baches (Holiday Homes) are preserved as museums about the way New Zealanders used to holiday, while others are still in use, and can be rented by the night. It is easy to visit a few of these before setting out on your chosen walking trail.
As a destination, the most popular activity is to follow the trackto the summit, which is dominated by the massive volcanic crater. There is no greater reward than the splendid 360 degree views from the top. Though the climb is free and not challenging it is deceptively long and a half day is required for the return journey, unless you choose the commercial 4WD train ride. Other options include coastal walks including the one to Motutapu (Sacred Island), which is the attached, flatter and often invisible twin of Rangitoto. There are historic sites on both islands, including WWII defence fortifications, some in reasonably good order. Overnight stays are possible if planned in advance as there are campsites and accommodation on Motutapu.

The most important practical note would be that there is no fresh water on this island at all. It is rocky, hot and rocky and hot and rocky. And sometimes cold. So bring as much water as you need for the excursion you have planned. Ferry staff make it very clear that anyone left on the island after the last regular sailing will pay for their own water taxi back to the city.
On the way, see the interpretation panels at the lookout points, giving details of the island's flora and fauna. Following a pest eradication project this is one of the largest pest-free islands in New Zealand. The next stage is re-establishing native species. Transfers are being made of those not able to make their own way to the island.

RANGITOTO ISLAND TOUR FROM AUCKLAND

FULL DAY GRAND AUCKLAND VOLCANOES TOUR

Image Credit: Michelle Tatler Photographer