Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
caves branches off the summit walk and takes 30 minutes return. There's an information
board with walk maps at the wharf.
Motutapu, in contrast to Rangitoto, is mainly covered in grassland, which is grazed by
sheep and cattle. Archaeologically, this is a very significant island, with the traces of cen-
turies of continuous human habitation etched into its landscape.
At Home Bay on Motutapu there's a DOC campsite ( www.doc.govt.nz ; adult/child $6/3) with only
basic facilities (running water and a flush toilet). Bring cooking equipment, as open fires
are forbidden, and book online. It's a three-hour walk from Rangitoto wharf ; Fullers run a
weekend-only service to Home Bay in the summer months.
In 2011 both islands were officially declared predator-free after an extensive eradica-
tion programme. Endangered birds such as takahe and tieke (saddleback) have been re-
leased and others such as kakariki and bellbirds have returned of their own volition.
Getting There & Around
Fullers ( 09-367 9111; www.fullers.co.nz ; Ferry Building, 99 Quay St; adult/child return Auckland or Devonport
$29/14.50) Has ferry services to Rangitoto from Auckland's Ferry Building (20 minutes,
three daily on weekdays, four on weekends) and Devonport (two daily). It also offers the
Volcanic Explorer (adult/child incl ferry $60/30;
departs 9.15am & 12.15pm) , a guided tour around
the island in a canopied 'road train'.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Motuihe Island
Between Rangitoto and Waiheke Islands, 176-hectare Motuihe has a lovely white-sand
beach and a fascinating history. There are three pa sites, last occupied by the Ngati Paoa
tribe. The island was sold in 1840 (for a heifer, blankets, frocks, garden tools, pots and
pans) and from 1872 to 1941 served as a quarantine station. During WWI the dashing
swashbuckler Count von Luckner launched a daring escape from the island (where he was
interned with other German and Austrian nationals), making it 1000km to the Kermadec
Islands before being recaptured.
Motuihe has been rendered pest-free and is now subject to a vigorous reforestation pro-
ject by enthusiastic volunteers. As a result, endangered birds have returned, including the
loquacious tieke.
 
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