Rangitoto Island

Rangitoto Island has become an icon of Auckland, its distinctive symmetrical cone is visible from much of the city. The island was formed by a series of relatively recent volcanic eruptions[?], which ended about 500 years ago. The volcano is still classified as dormant.

It is possible to visit the island, there are daily ferry trips, but not to stay on the island. 30 years ago there were houses perched on the islands edge in a ring, but as these became uninhabited they were removed. A day trip allows a good walk to the summit, with stunning views of the harbour and city.

The island is volcanic and there is no natural water source, the plants grow using only rainfall, yet it is tree covered and also offers the chance to view some more unusual plants such as the kidney fern[?] [1] (http://www.hiddenforest.co.nz/plants/trueferns/hymen01a.htm).

Linked by a coastal causeway is a much older island Motutapu[?], where it is possible to view the archeological remains of a civilisation caught in Rangitoto's eruptions.

More links: http://www.bigjude.com/Page26