Discover Rangitoto Island

Where is it?

Rangitoto Island is situated about 8 km northeast of Auckland, a 25-minute cruise from the downtown ferry terminal, with some sailings travelling via Devonport. Rangitoto is connected to Motutapu Island by a causeway, so it's possible to walk between the two.

What can I do?

• Summit Climb - The Summit Track is the most popular walk on Rangitoto, winding through lava fields and native forest to the peak. At the top, take in panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf across to Auckland. The track features a gentle incline, and takes about an hour to reach the top. There are informative signage displays along the way, explaining the island's past volcanic activity, and significant human history. For example, the Summit Track and island roads were built by prison labour between 1925 and 1936. Learn more about Rangitoto Summit Walk.
• Lava Caves - Explore the island’s lava caves, about 45 minutes into your Summit Track journey. Located 200 metres from the summit on the eastern side, these lava tubes were left behind after the passage of liquid lava. The short diversion leads you to the Rangitoto lava tunnels, about 15 minutes each way. Remember your torch if you would like to explore the caves fully, as it is quite dark.
• Rangitoto Shipwrecks - A graveyard for unwanted vessels. At least 13 ships were abandoned here between 1887 and 1947. More info, here.

Download Rangitoto Island Map

What do I need?

• Plenty of water, snacks and lunch, as there are no food outlets on the island.
• Good walking shoes, sun block and a sun hat.
• Swimming gear and a towel in the warmer months.
• A light rain jacket, and warm layers. Temperatures can change quickly, regardless of the season.
• There are no rubbish bins on pest-free islands. Please remember to take all your rubbish, including leftover food, off the island with you.
• Please note: Bicycles, scooters and skateboards are not permitted on the island.
• Please note: Dogs and fires (including barbeques) are also prohibited to the low tide mark. Click here to see the Department of Conservation website for more details.

How long should I stay?

You'll need at least half a day (4-5 hours) to visit Rangitoto Island.

DON’T GET STRANDED: It's a long swim home!

Please check the time of the last ferry at the start of your trip – a clock on the wharf will indicate the last departure each day.

From time to time, adverse weather conditions require us to sail into Islington Bay Wharf instead of Rangitoto Wharf. This means there are some changes to your walking time on the island.

It may take up to an extra hour to walk to and from the summit from Islington Bay, and the track is shared by vehicles. We recommend you plan your walk accordingly and note the time of the last ferry off the island.

If you are unsure of which wharf we will be sailing to, please call our customer service team on 09 367 9111 on the morning of your departure.

Important pest-free island info

• Please check your bags for stowaways, such as mice, rats, Argentine ants and Rainbow Skinks to name a few.
• Ensure your footwear, clothing and bags are clean and free of soil and seeds.
• Your lunch must be packed in a rodent-proof/ sealed container e.g. hard plastic.
• No open bags or boxes will be allowed on-board. Everything you bring must be sealed or zipped closed.
• There are no rubbish bins on pest-free islands. Please remember to take all your rubbish, including leftover food, off the island with you.
• Dogs and fires (including barbeques) are prohibited to the low tide mark. Click here to see the Department of Conservation website for more details.

Read more before you visit a pest-free island here

On-Board Safety Guidelines

Your safety is important to us. To ensure that your journey is smooth sailing please follow our On-Board Safety Guidelines.