Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TOP OF CHAPTER
Rangitoto &
Motutapu Islands
POP 75
largest and youngest of Auckland's volcanic cones, provides a picturesque backdrop to all
of the city's activities. As recently as 600 years ago it erupted from the sea and was prob-
ably active for several years before settling down. Maori living on
Motutapu
(Sacred Is-
land;
www.motutapu.org.nz
)
, to which Rangitoto is now joined by a causeway, certainly wit-
nessed the eruptions, as footprints have been found embedded in ash, and oral history de-
tails several generations living here before the eruption.
Rangitoto makes for a great day trip. Its harsh scoria slopes hold a surprising amount of
flora (including the world's largest pohutukawa forest) and there are excellent walks, but
you'll need sturdy shoes and plenty of water. Although it looks steep, up close it's shaped
more like an egg sizzling in a pan. The walk to the summit only takes an hour and is re-
warded with sublime views. At the top a loop walk goes around the crater's rim. A walk to
lava caves branches off the summit walk and takes 30 minutes return. There's an informa-
tion 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.
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 eradication
programme. Endangered birds such as takahe and tieke (saddleback) have been released
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'.
