Adventure Is Out There!: ISLAND EXPLORER

A must-do for every Aucklander or visitor is to jump on a ferry and view the skyline. On this particular day we decided to watch the city shrink as we departed on the ferry to Rangitoto. Rangitoto is the most recent and the largest of the 50 something dormant volcanoes in Auckland. It was an early start to a Sunday morning, but with limited departures to the iconic Auckland volcano, it was necessary so as to make the most of our day. The last ferry back is 4pm and we weren't really prepared for an overnight stay. There's a network of different walks around the volcano and even a causeway to the neighbouring Motutapu Island, which extends the walking track options. We decided we wanted to summit the volcano, and on the way back stop at McKenzie Bay, and the Beacon Lighthouse.

The walk up was exciting and certainly got the blood pumping. It isn't a particularly challenging or steep incline, but reaching the top was rewarding, especially for the views of the Auckland coastline. On our way up, we made a detour to explore the lava caves. There's a signposted track, but it's fairly rocky and dotted with smaller, less accessible lava networks. The best cave is at the end of the track, it runs underground for about about 50 metres. The footing can be tricky so a torch is necessary.

The walk down was a little repetitive, surrounded by rocks on either side of the path, reminded us a bit of Mordor. It wasn't until we spotted the lighthouse, and reached McKenzie Bay, that the views became picture worthy again. As we walked back to the wharf, the city ran parallel to us, a constant reminder that this peaceful bushland is only a stone throw away from the busy city life.