Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
island makes Rangitoto one of the few basalt shield volcanoes in the world, and a miniature
version of the great volcanoes of Hawaii. Although Rangitoto is thought to be extinct, the
Auckland volcano field is regarded as only dormant - that is, 'resting' but potentially active.
The lava rock is an inhospitable environment for plant life, as it is highly porous and
heats to very high temperatures. Still, plants and bush are slowly covering the open lava
fields. Moss, lichen and algae were the first plants to colonise, followed by pohutukawa
trees. Rangitoto now has the largest remaining pohutukawa forest in NZ. The island is also
home to more than 250 species of native trees and flowering plants, including 40 kinds of
fern and several species of orchid. The new forest does not support many land birds, but
seabirds are common along the shoreline, and the population includes a black-backed gull
colony.
8
Planning
WHEN TO TRAMP
You can tramp year-round on Rangitoto Island, though it can be a hot and dry place during
summer, often a degree or two warmer than Auckland. From December through February
the temperature is usually around 25°C, and at times can reach 30°C. When the sun and heat
reflect off the lava fields, it feels like you're tramping through an oven. Christmas and
Easter holidays can be very busy, and with so many people heading for the Rangitoto sum-
mit it's like a pilgrimage. Once you are away from the Summit Track, however, you will en-
counter far fewer trampers, and possibly none at all on the Coastal Track.
WHAT TO BRING
As these are offshore islands with no available supplies, you will need to bring everything
with you. Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat are advisable, as are strong walking shoes, if
not boots.
MAPS & BROCHURES
The track is covered by NewTopo map
Rangitoto-Motutapu
1:42,000, as well as NZTopo50
BA32 (Auckland).
HUTS & CAMPING
There are no huts or other accommodation on Rangitoto Island. On Motutapu Island there is
Bookings are essential.
