Got to Get Out: Rangitoto Island perfect spot to enjoy hiking debut
hours if you feel like a bit more adventure.
Where to stay?
There is no camping on Rangitoto, so if you don’t have a place to stay you won’t want to miss the last ferry home, unless you are happy to pay for a water taxi. A few baches can be rented online.
How long does it take?
Most people are dropped by ferry to the Rangitoto Wharf and can reach the summit in about an hour.
Checking out the limestone caves can make the round trip roughly three hours.
The coastal loop, including summit, lunch stop on top and a cave detour, is about five hours. Difficulty rating (1-5): 1-2. The hardest part of this walk is really the short but steepish climb to the summit, otherwise it’s a nice easy adventure for the whole family.
However, walkers without the right footwear soon complain of sore feet due to the volcanic ground which is extremely hard on the feet and ankles.
Those with previous injuries may wish to strap ankles before doing this walk.
What to bring?
Like any hike in New Zealand, you need to be prepared.
There is no drinking water or food on the island so you need to take everything with you.
You need suitable clothing, sun protection and personal first aid.
There is good mobile phone coverage on most of the island, so go over with a charged phone so you can call for help if you strike problems.
Other vital info
Whatever you do, don’t miss the last ferry off the island or expect to pay for a water taxi to come and get you.
Other notes
Motutapu Island is nearby for adventurers wanting to explore two unique islands in one day. Motutapu was closed to the public for much of 2017 following storm damage, but is now open again.
Why I recommend it
The upside of Rangitoto is that it is so close to Auckland and can be done in a day. It’s easy enough for the whole family and new visitors to the city just love it.