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Rangitoto Island, located in the Hauraki Gulf, is eight km southeast of the city of Auckland. Rangitoto Island may be seen at a distance from a number of the city’s coastline attractions. Rangitoto Island is one of Auckland’s top destinations for outdoor activities. There are walking trails both inside and along the island’s coast. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the sea from either the peak or its coasts. This place promises a unique experience amidst the sea.
Location
Photo: Mx. Granger / Wikimedia Commons
Rangitoto Island is just a half-hour ferry trip from Auckland. It provides tourists with an exciting getaway from the city. This 600-year-old dormant volcano offers breathtaking sweeping views of Auckland . It also has a variety of challenging walks appropriate for hikers of all skill levels, both up and down the island.
How To Reach Rangitoto Island
Photo: russellstreet / Wikimedia Commons
The following are the two ways to reach Rangitoto Island:
By Air: To reach Rangitoto Island, visitors shall land at the Auckland Airport. After landing at this airport, take a cab or bus to Auckland Ferry Terminal. And then take a boat to the island.
By Ferry: Twice daily, at 9.15 AM and 12.15 PM, the 25-minute boat journey leaves from the Auckland ferry terminal located on 99 Quay Street (9.25 AM and 12.25 PM from Devonport). At 12.45 and 3.30 PM, the ferry departs the island and returns. Another option is to go straight from Devonport Ferry Wharf by ferry. The ferry ride takes about twenty-five minutes.
Places To Visit Near Rangitoto Island
Here are the best places to visit around the Rangitoto Island:
1. Lava Caves
Photo: Jodie Wilson / Wikimedia Commons
Lava Caves are an essential part of the Rangitoto Island. The sign to the Lava Caves is visible if you follow the summit track, which is the primary ascent to the peak. When hot liquid lava reached the surface, it cooled and left behind lava tubes and this is how the caves were formed. Walking into the largest cave tunnel here may only take a few minutes, but the experience is worth it. It’s understandably dark inside, so bring a torch (or your phone torch if you have a steady hand). This cave is internationally renowned.
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Best Time To Visit: December to February
2. Mackenzie Bay & Lighthouse
Photo: Aleksandr Abrosimov / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Mackenzie Bay and Lighthouse is a tourist attraction in Rangitoto Island. This place attracts several visitors who come to admire the lighthouse and peaceful views that it offers. This lighthouse was built in 1882. The bay is a perfect place to swim and relax. It takes about a few minutes to reach Mackenzie Bay from the wharf. This bay is of great historical significance and once served as dumping grounds for the old ships.
Timings: During daytime
Best Time To Visit: September to November or December to February
3. Rangitoto Summit Track
Photo: BrysonH44 / Wikimedia Commons
The Rangitoto Summit Track should be your first choice during your day trip to Rangitoto. One of the greatest walks and excursions in Auckland is this walking track. From Rangitoto Wharf, the walk climbs to the top of the volcano. It should take about an hour to walk to the summit at a leisurely pace. When you arrive at the summit, be in awe of the volcano’s unique crater and be mesmerised by the breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views. You can see the Waitakere Ranges on the west coast if the sky is clear. Keep an eye out for Waiheke Island to the east.
Timings: 6 AM till sunset
Best Time To Visit: December to February
4. Coastal Track
Photo: Orderinchaos / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Hikers who require a lengthier stroll should put on their hiking shoes and visit the Coastal Track. This walking trail, which begins at Rangitoto Wharf, winds along the southern shore’s rocky lava fields. Additionally, it hikes to Islington Bay Wharf through the island’s interior forest. You’ll come across stunning vistas of the forest and the coast along the route. Keep an eye out for quarries, mine storage bases, and beaches. There are classic beach cottages around too.
Timings: Daytime from Early morning till 5 PM
Best Time To Visit: September to November or December to February
5. Motutapu Island
Photo: Dinkum / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Motutapu Island is just a short distance east of Rangitoto. As you cross the small causeway, rocky volcanic landscapes give way to verdant pastures. Motutapu Island is a fulfilling experience. There are sand beaches, pleasant walking trails, and significant Maori archaeological sites. The central region of Motutapu has several World War II sites. History aficionados will find underground supplies and shelters, as well as three artillery emplacements. Motutapu Island is an interesting tourist destination and is a part of the Hauraki Gulf Maritime Park.
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Best Time To Visit: December to February or September to November
Where To Stay
Photo: russellstreet / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Bach in Rangitoto Island is ideal for accommodation. Despite being self-contained, three of these historic baches have been meticulously refurbished to reflect their age. They now have gas ovens, solar refrigerators, chemical toilets, and solar power. There are now three bungalows on Rangitoto that are for rent, Bach 52 is near Rangitoto Wharf, Bach 78 and Bach 114 are at Islington Bay. However, for your comfort and needs, you can also book hotels in Auckland and nearby places.
Where To Eat
Photo: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There are no cafes or grocery stores on Rangitoto Island, so you will need to carry your own food and water. You should also carry trash bags with you. All food containers need to be sealed and inspected for bugs, according to the DOC. However, you can reserve tables or visit restaurants and cafes in Auckland and try some authentic and famous dishes of the place. A few of the recommended places are The Groove, The Sails Restaurant and Jerome Restaurant.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Jason Pratt / Wikimedia Commons
Rangitoto Island can be visited any time of year, except rainy seasons. This establishment gets a little packed on weekends, so you shall visit during the week. September to December is regarded as the ideal time to visit as there are no interrupting rainfalls.
Tips For Travellers:
- Book your ticket for the ferry. If you purchased online beforehand, you might keep it safe on your phone.
- Good walking shoes are necessary because the terrain contains many small rocks in some places, even if you are a steady walker.
- There is no cafe or store on Rangitoto Island, so bring water and snacks or a picnic lunch!.
- Sunscreen (and a sunhat if you’re going in the summer)should be kept with you.
- Given how rapidly the weather in Auckland may change, bring a rain jacket or hoodie (and warm layers if travelling in winter).
- Keep your phone charged to check the ferry’s return time.
- If you’re going to the lava caverns, bring a torch.
- A map is advised to verify the locations of Bach residences, detours, and other features, even if the main summit trail is clearly marked.
Rangitoto Island is one of the most visited places near Auckland. This island is an ideal choice for all nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The place is a preferred place for tourism as it has multiple attractive spots in the vicinity. With several hiking tracks and walking trails, Rangitoto Island is as perfect as it seems. Now that you have read about everything that the island is home, book a trip with TripXL which promises a unique experience and a memorable time.
Cover Photo: DXR / Wikimedia Commons
