Things to Do in Rangitoto Island

by allikat,
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Emerging from on of the
lava tunnels

There are a number of lava caves on Rangitoto, which you will come across during your walk (I think you will miss them entirely if you take the tractor-train). The caves are not deep - some are simply shallow caverns in the lava, while others are natural tunnels formed by the lava flows. The tunnels are very dark! I was only persuaded to continue through one in pitch darkness by the friendly encouragement of some other walkers who had established that after a bit there was in fact daylight at the other end. You do need to take care in the tunnels, because it would be so easy to twist an ankle on the rocky lava floors. However, they are fun to explore, so tread carefully and go for it!

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	Old Lava Flows Tip Rating:

Updated By keeweechic

on August 28, 2003

As you tour back down the island you will drive past bare lava fields, lava caves, pillars and tunnels and different types of lava flows which are remnants of the Islands volcanic activity.

Amazingly even with these seemingly barren areas, the island hosts over 200 species of native trees and flowering plants. There are more than 40 kinds of fern and several types of orchid – all seem to have adopted strange behaviours because of the unusual conditions

Address: Rangitoto Island

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	Island History Tip Rating:

Updated By keeweechic

on August 28, 2003

The Crown purchased Rangitoto in 1854 and it was designated a public domain in 1890. During the 1920s and 1930s prisoners built the stone walls, handpacked roads and trails on the island. Some of the Bach sites which were built and leased to help pay for island developments. Are now preserved as historic buildings. During World War II there were extensive defence installations on the island which including a fire command post on the summit.

Address: Rangitoto Island

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	Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Tip Rating:

Updated By keeweechic

on August 28, 2003

The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park is considered to be one of the most biologically and geographically diverse marine parks in the world.

Rangitoto is just one of the 48 islands within the park which is administered by the Department of Conservation.

Address: Rangitoto Island

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	A Steep Climb But Worth It Tip Rating:

Updated By keeweechic

on August 28, 2003

The tractor ride will drop you off at the bottom, 900 metres from the summit, and you will return there to catch your ride back down again.

There is a good hike via a boardwalk to the summit. There are handrails to assist you but if you’re not fit, its quite a climb.

Address: Rangitoto Island

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	Take A Bumpy Ride Tip Rating:

Updated By keeweechic

on August 28, 2003

When you arrive at Rangitoto you have the option of a grand tour around the island or do it yourself by either walking or eliminating the 1 hour hike to the summit and taking the islands tractor pulled road train (the Rangitoto Explorer) to the top which will take around 30 mins one way. This way you get to see some of the island both on the way up going one side, and coming down the other side. Beware though the ride is bumpy and noisy over a gravel road.

Address: Rangitoto Island

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	A Distinctive Icon Tip Rating:

Updated By keeweechic

on August 28, 2003

The island is fairly unique because its quite symmetrical in shape. It has become a local icon to Aucklanders. The Island is right at the entrance to the Waitemata Harbour . The distinctive shape can be seen all over Auckland.

Address: Rangitoto Island

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	Spectacular Views Tip Rating:

Updated By keeweechic

on August 28, 2003

Once reaching the summit you will have 360 degree views of Auckland, the North Shore, Whangaparaoa Peninsula and the outer islands in the Gulf.
The cone of the crater is steep and 60 metres deep.

Address: Rangitoto Island

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	The Hauraki Gulf Tip Rating:

Updated By keeweechic

on February 27, 2006

The Hauraki Gulf has more than 1,500 sq. nautical miles of cruising and has been the perfect venue for the America's Cup yacht race.

There are many sheltered anchorages and deserted beaches around the numerous islands.

Address: Rangitoto Island

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	Pohutukawa Forest Tip Rating:

Updated By keeweechic

on August 28, 2003

The island is covered in pohutukawa trees, which are regarded as the New Zealand Christmas tree. In fact the island's predominantly pohutukawa forest is the largest in the country.