The Volcano Tourist

Rangitoto is an Auckland natural icon. Located in the Hauraki Gulf, this dormant island-volcano provides a distinctive scenery of an almost symmetrical volcanic cone. Rangitoto Island Rangitoto is the youngest and the largest of all the volcanoes in the Auckland Volcanic Field. Geologists believe that Rangitoto's most recent eruption only happened 600 years ago. Also, they indicate that it had produced the most amount of lava compared to the other volcanoes in the volcanic field. A tour of Rangitoto is one of the most popular day-trips in Auckland. With an area of about 5.5 kilometres, a range of leisure and recreational activities can be undertaken on the island, which include tramping, a guided tour, sightseeing, lava cave spelunking, and swimming. Getting there The volcanic island is easily accessible from the Auckland City Centre. Fullers Ferry sails from the Ferry Terminal to the island, three times a day during weekdays, and five times a day on weekends and publi...

Aerial view of Mount Eden (Source: GNS Science) With over 48 volcanoes to choose from, deciding which one to visit first might be a difficult task - at least not for me. Given its geological, social and cultural significance as a volcanic attraction, Mount Eden deserves to be my Auckland Volcano #1. Also, did I say that it is the city's highest peak? Quick Volcanic Facts Official Name: Mount Eden Maori (indigenous) Name: Maungawhau Location: 250 Mt Eden Road, Mount Eden, Auckland, New Zealand Type: Cinder cone (or scoria cone) Classification: Extinct volcano Elevation: 196 metres Prominent Geological Feature: 50 metre-deep crater Last known eruption: Some 15,000 years ago Historical Significance: Used as a Maori 'Pa' or early settlement; previous archaeological site Current use: Recreational domain for the local community; tourist attraction Conservation Status: Protected by the New Zealand Historical Places Act 1980 Information Sources: Smith, Lowe &...