View of Rangitoto Island
Rangitoto Island is the largest, youngest and one of the least modified of about 50 volcanic cones and craters in the Auckland volcanic field. It erupted from the sea in a series of dramatic explosions around 600 years ago, and is now extinct. It dominates the local seascape and a visit there is like stepping into another world. The island is a public reserve managed by the Department of Conservation and is famed world-wide as a botanical gem.
The volcanic Rangitoto Island features 200 species of native plants, including 40 fern species. The island's pohutukawa forest is the largest in the country.
Take a walk to the Rangitoto’s summit or meander along the many coastal and forest walk available. Considered one of the world’s botanical gems, it’s a great place to view unusual plants.
There is no accommodation on Rangitoto, but neighbouring Motutapu has a basic campsite and an outdoor education centre and lodge.
Please do not bring dogs or other animals onto Motutapu and if you arrive by boat check for rodent stowaways. They are all a threat to protected wildlife.
DOC is about to embark on an ambitious project to breathe life back into Rangitoto and Motutapu islands, creating a nature sanctuary right on Auckland’s front door step.
With the explosive growth of plant life since it erupted from the sea 600-700 years ago there are now more than 200 species of native plants, including 40 species of fern.
Rangitoto Island in Auckland’s Waitemata harbour is this country’s youngest volcano. Watch a video on the ways this helps us learn about how life populates an area.
NZ weather
Rangitoto Island brochure (PDF, 473K)
Rangitoto Island map (PDF,180K)
Rangitoto & Motutapu restoration project
Rangitoto Island Historic Conservation Trust www.rangitito.org/
Safety information
Always contact the nearest visitor centre for the latest information about facilities and conditions.
