Rangitoto Island
Rangitoto Island
4.5
About
This volcanic island, which last erupted 600 years ago, offers bird-watching, swimming, fishing, walking trails, colorful flora and spectacular views from the summit of its cone-shaped mountain.
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingTours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view










Top ways to experience Rangitoto Island and nearby attractions
The area
Best nearby
We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Attractions
51 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- FredRochaRio de Janeiro, RJ72 contributionsRangitoto: a great full day when in AucklandA nice small volcanic island just 25minutes north by boat from Auckland. I suggest to take a boat soon in the morning (09:00 is very OK) because in the afternoon the environment is very hot there. The boat ticket costs 39 NZD round trip. Take with you plenty of water (I suggest 2 liters per person) for you to drink there because there is no water in the island and no place to buy water or food or soft drinks there. Prepare some sandwiches, fruits and snacks or any food you want to consume along the day.The trails in the island are well indicated in terms of the way to you to follow, although the indications usually shows only the time between points and only few show the distances (in Km) between points. For those intending hikking along the trails in the island it is better to remain in the Rangitoto island because the trails in the connecrted island Motutapu are mostly along a grass landscape and thus, you walk under so hot and under strong heat from sun. You should start your journey walking upto the Volcano summit where the crater of the volcano and there is a great 360o view of the island, including the other islands and Auckland bay. From there we followed in the trail to Islington Bay Wharf where you have a very nice beach thst you can swim. We had a nice picnick in the Inslington wharf and after it, we returned to Rangitoto wharf by the coastal track. To opt for this track be aware that along most of this trail you will walk on and among rocks of volcano lava on very irregular ground and sharp rocks. Use good trail shoes and do not use sandals. At the end of this trail you have a rest area and toalets and clear water where you can swim (so, take your watersuits with you), while you wait your boat to came back to Auckland. All of our journey tooked 17.3 km along trails and about five hours. Be aware that the last boat departs from the island to Auckland 5:00 PM and if you lost it you must pay a very expensive taxi boat to return if yoy are not prepared to camp in the few available indicated camping areas.Visited January 2020Written January 18, 2020
- creativecrewAllentown, Pennsylvania2,334 contributionsSkip the organized tour and just ride the ferry to this cool island!So easy to explore this newly formed volcanic island (it erupted 600 years ago) without a guide or tour group. Simply purchase the ferry tickets at the wharf and be mindful of when the last ferry leaves for return trip (or you’ll pay dearly for them to gone get you and your fellow adventurers off the island.) Easy to use the hiking map to figure out which path you want to take and the map shows the amount of time each section of the walk takes to complete. Signs at the dock tell the history of the island and explain the lava rock formations and species of plants and birds on the island. Interesting history of how years ago this was a weekend bungalow destination for families. But now come for day trips and leave nothing behind. Bring water with you and only take photos—none of the unique rocks or plants!Visited December 2019Traveled with friendsWritten January 4, 2020
- redjasper171 contributionsWorth doing onceRangitoto _is_ worth doing once! I was glad to have purchased only the ferry ticket with no tour on a day where there is no ferry in the port. I recommend taking the clockwise route to McKenzie Bay as there are far fewer people, there is more to see and the bay itself is a nice place to stop for lunch. From what I could gather, the tourist route is shorter, steeper and less fulfilling if you expect a workout. The timings given on the signs are wide overestimates for seasoned walkers, and the route mostly follows the road takenby the tourist train: catching the 9:15 ferry, the round trip, including stops to admire views and the crater rim walk was an easy 3.5 hours. I could have lingered more at some sites as I was back in plenty of time to meet the 2:30 ferry.Visited February 2020Traveled soloWritten February 27, 2020
- Larissa KAuckland, New Zealand69 contributionsGreat day out in AucklandThis is a great day out in Auckland especially for family/friend groups. I would recommend buying your ferry tickets online to avoid the hassle of having to buy them prior to boarding or avoiding missing out (especially peak times like school holidays, weekends, summer) on the ferry time you want, although there are several times per day. Excellent views at the top. Walk straight to the summit or do other walks around the volcano. Summit walk is 1 hour to the top, we took less time coming back down. Take food and water (no shops), only toilets available. Take a jacket or be prepared for the weather/season you go in. Cell phone reception available. I am with Vodafone and it worked fine. Cafe available on the ferry if needed.Visited April 2022Traveled with familyWritten April 25, 2022
- ColinCharlotte, North Carolina11 contributionsFun HikeSomething about standing on an island that was only around 600 years old was pretty cool. If you’re adventurous then bring some tennis shoes or hiking shoes and head to the top. I would consider it a moderate hike. Once at the top you can take a few pics and the do a short 15 minute trek around the rim. On the way back to the ferry we detoured to see the ferns and kauri trees. While we were waiting on the ferry, we checked out a few of the old summer homes, or batches as they call them. The last ferry is at 4:30p, so don’t miss it. Apparently that’s an expensive mistake. Bring water! There is none available on the island, but you can buy it on the ferry. There’s also a grocery about half a mile from the ferry port in Auckland and water is only $1 NZ a bottle which is much cheaper.Visited February 2020Traveled as a coupleWritten February 8, 2020
- FranciscaVergaraAuckland Central, New Zealand124 contributionsWalk with friendsIt is a nice spot from where you can see also the city of Auckland. I highly recommend to go with hiking shoes and plenty of water and some snacks because there is no drinking water in the island nor markets to buy food. However, the walk is quite short (maybe 2.5 hours total) so you don’t need much to eat.Visited May 2019Traveled with friendsWritten March 16, 2020
- Jason F27 contributionsBeautiful views and an enjoyable walkBooked the ferry a few days beforehand and pleased we did, as it was busy on the day. We decided to take a long route up and down, to avoid the crowds, and if you have time to do the same, I’d recommend it - we only passed a handful of people apart from at the top where it was much busier. The total route we took was 9 miles and this includes quite a bit of elevation. The track is smooth and wide in a lot of places, but uneven and rocky in others. We wore proper walking shoes, which helped a lot, as a minimum you’d need sturdy shoes for a comfortable walk. There are no cafes etc on the island so remember to take plenty of food and drink and to take your rubbish home with you. We saw a number of different birds, including saddlebacks.Visited January 2023Traveled with friendsWritten January 29, 2023
- LspickoDominican Republic12 contributionsGreat family hikeOur family of four enjoyed the hour-long hike on Rangitoto Island. The views were lovely along the way and simply spectacular at the top. Be sure and bring water and snacks as there is no availability on the island. You could purchase some limited snacks on the boat but EFTPOS wasn’t working on our vessel on the day and we had limited cash. Ferry service was prompt and smooth even with wind and choppy conditions. Highly recommend.Visited January 2020Traveled with familyWritten January 11, 2020
- Sophie75 contributionsLovely ViewsThe views at the end make it worthwhile. Given there is only one feasible way up, as well as everyone arriving on the same boat, expect some foot traffic on the way up. Would recommend going back down a different (less direct) route for a more peaceful walk. It is a lovely escape from the city, and would definately take advantage of stopping off in Devenport on your return.Visited March 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten June 16, 2023
- Ali_HawkinsWellington, New Zealand2,149 contributionsVery interestingThis is a very interesting place to visit - there is a four-wheel-drive tractor which can pick you up from the ferry and take you around the island to see the interesting lava flows. Also, you can go to the summit and enjoy the view across back to Auckland city. You need to take a bush track up to the summit, including along a boardwalk, which is about 15 minutes. The whole island is really interesting and quite scenic, with great views from all around.Visited March 2020Traveled soloWritten March 17, 2020
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
2,212 reviews
Excellent
1,422
Very good
681
Average
91
Poor
11
Terrible
7
Larissa K
Auckland, New Zealand69 contributions
Apr 2022 • Family
This is a great day out in Auckland especially for family/friend groups.
I would recommend buying your ferry tickets online to avoid the hassle of having to buy them prior to boarding or avoiding missing out (especially peak times like school holidays, weekends, summer) on the ferry time you want, although there are several times per day.
Excellent views at the top. Walk straight to the summit or do other walks around the volcano.
Summit walk is 1 hour to the top, we took less time coming back down.
Take food and water (no shops), only toilets available. Take a jacket or be prepared for the weather/season you go in.
Cell phone reception available. I am with Vodafone and it worked fine.
Cafe available on the ferry if needed.
I would recommend buying your ferry tickets online to avoid the hassle of having to buy them prior to boarding or avoiding missing out (especially peak times like school holidays, weekends, summer) on the ferry time you want, although there are several times per day.
Excellent views at the top. Walk straight to the summit or do other walks around the volcano.
Summit walk is 1 hour to the top, we took less time coming back down.
Take food and water (no shops), only toilets available. Take a jacket or be prepared for the weather/season you go in.
Cell phone reception available. I am with Vodafone and it worked fine.
Cafe available on the ferry if needed.
Written April 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Colin
Charlotte, NC11 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
Something about standing on an island that was only around 600 years old was pretty cool. If you’re adventurous then bring some tennis shoes or hiking shoes and head to the top. I would consider it a moderate hike.
Once at the top you can take a few pics and the do a short 15 minute trek around the rim. On the way back to the ferry we detoured to see the ferns and kauri trees.
While we were waiting on the ferry, we checked out a few of the old summer homes, or batches as they call them. The last ferry is at 4:30p, so don’t miss it. Apparently that’s an expensive mistake.
Bring water! There is none available on the island, but you can buy it on the ferry. There’s also a grocery about half a mile from the ferry port in Auckland and water is only $1 NZ a bottle which is much cheaper.
Once at the top you can take a few pics and the do a short 15 minute trek around the rim. On the way back to the ferry we detoured to see the ferns and kauri trees.
While we were waiting on the ferry, we checked out a few of the old summer homes, or batches as they call them. The last ferry is at 4:30p, so don’t miss it. Apparently that’s an expensive mistake.
Bring water! There is none available on the island, but you can buy it on the ferry. There’s also a grocery about half a mile from the ferry port in Auckland and water is only $1 NZ a bottle which is much cheaper.
Written February 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FranciscaVergara
Auckland Central, New Zealand124 contributions
May 2019 • Friends
It is a nice spot from where you can see also the city of Auckland. I highly recommend to go with hiking shoes and plenty of water and some snacks because there is no drinking water in the island nor markets to buy food. However, the walk is quite short (maybe 2.5 hours total) so you don’t need much to eat.
Written March 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jason F
27 contributions
Jan 2023 • Friends
Booked the ferry a few days beforehand and pleased we did, as it was busy on the day. We decided to take a long route up and down, to avoid the crowds, and if you have time to do the same, I’d recommend it - we only passed a handful of people apart from at the top where it was much busier. The total route we took was 9 miles and this includes quite a bit of elevation. The track is smooth and wide in a lot of places, but uneven and rocky in others. We wore proper walking shoes, which helped a lot, as a minimum you’d need sturdy shoes for a comfortable walk. There are no cafes etc on the island so remember to take plenty of food and drink and to take your rubbish home with you. We saw a number of different birds, including saddlebacks.
Written January 29, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lspicko
Dominican Republic12 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
Our family of four enjoyed the hour-long hike on Rangitoto Island. The views were lovely along the way and simply spectacular at the top. Be sure and bring water and snacks as there is no availability on the island. You could purchase some limited snacks on the boat but EFTPOS wasn’t working on our vessel on the day and we had limited cash. Ferry service was prompt and smooth even with wind and choppy conditions. Highly recommend.
Written January 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sophie
75 contributions
Mar 2023 • Couples
The views at the end make it worthwhile. Given there is only one feasible way up, as well as everyone arriving on the same boat, expect some foot traffic on the way up. Would recommend going back down a different (less direct) route for a more peaceful walk. It is a lovely escape from the city, and would definately take advantage of stopping off in Devenport on your return.
Written June 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ali_Hawkins
Wellington, New Zealand2,149 contributions
Mar 2020 • Solo
This is a very interesting place to visit - there is a four-wheel-drive tractor which can pick you up from the ferry and take you around the island to see the interesting lava flows. Also, you can go to the summit and enjoy the view across back to Auckland city. You need to take a bush track up to the summit, including along a boardwalk, which is about 15 minutes. The whole island is really interesting and quite scenic, with great views from all around.
Written March 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AnnaNZPorirua
Porirua, New Zealand156 contributions
Jan 2021 • Family
It's been on my list of things to do in Auckland for a while. Finally took the ferry to Rangitoto. Very few people went the same day as us, so we basically had our pick of seats. Don't forget at present you need to wear a mask on the ferry. Lots of cool information boards on the way up to the summit. We walked to the lava caves on our way up.... very cool but do take a torch (especially if you have kids - give them the torch). The last 15 mins up to the crater is a bit of a slog but the view at the top is magic and we had it all to ourselves!
But slippery on the volcanic rocks coming back down so make sure you wear appropriate shoes.
A must do in NZ
But slippery on the volcanic rocks coming back down so make sure you wear appropriate shoes.
A must do in NZ
Written January 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AprilCDansie
Guildford, UK162 contributions
Jan 2023 • Couples
We booked our ferry crossing online the night before as there was only one crossing that day. When we arrived for ferry they were turning away walk ups as they were fully booked. Before boarding we were told that there would only be 1 return ferry and not the 3 that were advertised. The ferry dropped us at the alternative drop off point, we only told this once we got off the boat. Ferry issues aside we had a great walk up to the crater. Easy walk with steps at the peak. Bring lunch and water.
Written January 14, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ted R
Great Dunmow, Essex158 contributions
Mar 2020
We had a "spare" day when nothing had been scheduled and decided to visit this dormant volcano. Once again everything worked together for us, the views were stunning, all of the people on the tour were great and our guide/driver, Mark, was very informative, extremely helpful and incredibly amusing (he reminded me very much of the late Clive James). We went by four-wheel drive tractor and passenger trailer, which, unless you are very fit and like walking over uneven surfaces, is a must. The (unmade) road (which was hand-built by convict labour in the 1800's) was somewhat rough and our guide took us to the base of the summit where there was a very good boardwalk leading up to the top. The island has its own unique flora and fauna which is able to grow thanks to the mould which forms on the volcanic pumice/basalt.the views were stunning (see attached pictures). The history of the island and its (past) inhabitants was fascinating and included things like the historical society (surprisingly) deciding to remove some of the bachs (pronounced "batches") that had been built for the convict labourers.
Written March 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Greg W
Brisbane, Australia76 contributions
Which beach did you swim at? On the ferry site's map there are no "recommended" beaches on Rangitoto, only Motutapu. Thanks
KiWombat-18
Greymouth, New Zealand94 contributions
Shoreline of Rangitoto is volcanic, so not suitable for swimming unless you are very brave! Plenty of bayside beaches around Auckland Harbour - take your pick
Lori K
Grand Rapids, MI26 contributions
We would love to go to Rangitoto but can only take the 12:15 ferry. That only gives us a few hours on the island. Is it worth it?
1962Eduardo
Vina del Mar, Chile49 contributions
Absolutely! You will have enough time to climb to the summit and return to the pier if your pace is slow. With a brisk pace you would get to the small beach at the other side of the island beyond the crater, and return to the pier in time to get to the ferry.
Karl-Heinz D
5 contributions
Wieviel kostet die rangitoto Fähre und wo fährt sie ab
KarMe72
Munich, Germany254 contributions
Auf der Homepage von Fullers findet man alle Zeiten und ich denke auch Preise. Sie fahren vom Auckland Habour ab (das schöne alte Gebäude). Preis erinnere ich nicht mehr genau, vielleicht NZD 20-30. Fahrr dauert nur 25 Minuten...
ShaneLean
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia144 contributions
Hi,
May I know must i need to join any tour to Rangitoto Island and Waihehe island?
Thanks
Shane
Jeremy L
Christchurch, New Zealand369 contributions
No you can just ferry over and walk around anywhere you like. Free maps are Available and the tracks are all well marked.
xtne
Auckland Central, New Zealand91 contributions
How is the summit walk going up? Is it shaded by trees or all out in the open? Planning to go on a sunny day but that might be scorching hot without shade?
Anita W
Australia64 contributions
It is shaded half the time if not more. It get's steep but it is a path on an incline not climbing steep rocks. There are some stairs on the way not a lot but there are as you reach the summit which have various decks/landings coming off them. I wore jeans which were uncomfortable as you do need to lift your knees. I would suggest shorts and a light jacket only if the weather looks like it will be cold or wet. There is shelter as you get off the ferry, where the paths breaks to go to the lava caves and at the summit.
Take a hat as it gets hot on a sunny day.
Have fun!
Tanya G
Winnipeg, Canada31 contributions
hi there I was wondering on a scale to 1-10 how hard is the hike up. me and my mom who is 60 and gets tired quite quickly on uphill ..would you recommend it?
Anne M
10 contributions
It's a 3/4. Totally parent friendly. Take your sandwiches and have them at the very good look out at the top and have a good break.
Betherwk
Eden, UT
Do we need to make reservations for the ferry, or can you just walk on?
Cresswells2015
Auckland Central, New Zealand33 contributions
Might be best to book the ferry as February is a busy visitor month in Auckland. Also if you need help getting to the top and a commentary about the Island it is best to book the tractor/train ride.
njwms
Saint Louis, MO15 contributions
How do you get around at Rangitoto? Do you rent a car once you arrive on the island?
Bill S
Ballston Lake, NY112 contributions
This is a hiking island mainly. there is a small trolly to take you to the top if you want to wait. i didnt see it when we there. teh walk to the top took about an hour. i am not a hiker but enjoyed it.
Moira J
Salisbury, UK99 contributions
If we choose the 4WD option, can we get out to see lava caves etc?
HemisphereRambler
Bolingbrook, IL698 contributions
You will probably have to hike 15-20 minutes down from the summit to see the lava tubes. I would ask Fullers and see if this is possible.
Recently viewed
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listingRangitoto Island (Auckland Central) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Rangitoto Island
- We recommend booking Rangitoto Island tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 4 Rangitoto Island tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near Rangitoto Island:
- (6.39 mi) Braemar On Parliament Street
- (7.71 mi) Delamore Lodge
- (6.26 mi) Auckland Waterfront Serviced Apartments
- (6.33 mi) The Hotel Britomart
- (6.67 mi) Park Hyatt Auckland
- Restaurants near Rangitoto Island:
- (4.66 mi) Tokyo Bay
- (6.38 mi) Gerome Restaurant
- (6.61 mi) The Grove
- (6.39 mi) Ahi
- (6.59 mi) Culprit.
Rangitoto Island Information
| Excellent Reviews | 1,422 |
|---|---|
| Very Good Reviews | 681 |
| Rangitoto Island Photos | 1,282 |










































































