Rangitoto at dawn

Image: Chris Gin | Creative Commons

Rangitoto Island

Located in the Auckland region

Introduction

Emerging from the sea just 600 years ago, pest-free Rangitoto Island is the youngest volcano in New Zealand. An Auckland icon and deeply enriched with history, it's long been a favourite day trip for walkers, and a much loved boating destination.

Highlights

All drone use must be authorised by DOC

A concession is required to fly a drone on any public conservation land - see Recreational drone use and Commercial drone use for more information.

 

DOC completed a significant restoration programme on Rangitoto Island and its neighbour Motutapu Island. The islands are now a safe pest-free haven for precious native flora and fauna to survive and thrive.

The popular summit track climbs through the world's largest pohutukawa forest. The peak is 259 metres above sea level, so you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf.

No dogs allowed on Bay of Islands and Hauraki Gulf island reserves

No dogs.

Dogs are not allowed on island reserves in the Bay of Islands and Hauraki Gulf.

Video

Place overview

Facilities

  • Information panels

Activities

  • Bird and wildlife watching
  • Boating
  • Diving and snorkelling
  • Fishing
  • Kayaking and canoeing
  • Swimming
  • Walking and tramping
  • Protect our wildlife
    • Check - your gear for pests, eg. rodents, insects, skinks
    • Clean - footwear and gear, removing soil and seeds
    • Seal - ensure your gear is zipped up (no open bags)

    See island biosecurity requirements.

Brochures

In this section

Find things to do and places to stay Rangitoto Island

About this place

Getting there

Rangitoto Island is in the Hauraki Gulf close to Auckland city.

Waharoa/customary gateway.
The waharoa weclomes visitors to Rangitoto Island

There are two wharves – Rangitoto Wharf, serviced by public ferries; and Islington Bay Wharf, a popular anchorage for private boats. Private boats may use the wharves for loading and unloading passengers only.

You can take a public passenger ferry or charter.

Rangitoto is also accessible to experienced kayakers. It takes approximately two hours to kayak to Rangitoto Wharf from the Auckland's North Shore.

Know before you go

  • Bring your own food and water. There are no shops on the island.
  • Wear sturdy walking shoes that can cope with the rugged lava surfaces.
  • Wear sunscreen and a hat. The heat reflecting off the ground can be intense.

Take care not to miss your ferry. There is no overnight accommodation and alternative transport back to the mainland is expensive.

Hauraki Gulf Maritime Park bylaws apply. Do not light fires, or remove/disturb plants and artefacts. No bicycles or pets. Take your rubbish with you – there are no rubbish bins.

Some activities require a permit, such as weddings and events.

Contacts

Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland Visitor Centre
Phone:   +64 9 3796476
Fax:   +64 4 471 1117
Email:   aucklandvc@doc.govt.nz
Address:   Shop2, Shed 19, Princes Wharf
137 Princes Wharf
Auckland 1010
Postal Address:   PO Box 105 469
Auckland City 1143
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