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Rangitoto Summit is Auckland's youngest volcano, featuring a unique black lava landscape and 360-degree panoramic views. Formed approximately 600 years ago, it is one of New Zealand's most iconic landmarks. From the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Auckland's skyline and the Hauraki Gulf. The hike offers encounters with lava caves and native bush, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Rangitoto is a must-visit for geologists, photographers, and outdoor lovers alike.
Everything you need to know about Rangitoto Summit
For those planning to hike Rangitoto Summit, staying in Auckland city center is convenient for catching a ferry to Rangitoto Island. Here are some recommended accommodations:
Be sure to book your stay in advance and check ferry schedules to ensure a smooth trip.
Essential gear for Rangitoto Summit:
Nearby hotels:
Pro tip: Last return ferry typically departs at 4pm – allow 2 hours for ascent.
The hike to Rangitoto Summit takes about 1 hour (one way) from the trailhead, suitable for moderate fitness levels. Highlights include unique volcanic lava fields and native shrublands. The summit offers 360° views of Auckland city and Hauraki Gulf. Wear sturdy shoes, bring sufficient water, and check ferry schedules (last departure is typically around 4 PM). No shops on the island—sun protection is essential in summer.
The Rangitoto Summit hike (2.7km one-way) takes about 1 hour with moderate incline. Key facilities:
Pro tips: 🔹 Best time: Morning departures to avoid midday heat 🔹 Unique experience: Guided lava cave tours (book in advance) 🔹 Wildlife: Listen for native tui birds in pohutukawa forests
No shops on island – bring water and snacks. Wheelchair access limited to initial boardwalk section only.
The ferry from Auckland CBD to Rangitoto Island takes ~25 minutes. The summit hike is a 7km return trip (approx. 2 hours) through striking lava fields and native bush. The 360° view from the top encompasses Hauraki Gulf and Auckland’s skyline. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water/snacks (no shops on the island), and sun protection in summer. The island’s unique volcanic ecosystem is a key attraction.
See what other travelers say about Rangitoto Summit
The three-bedroom room was spacious and incredibly comfortable, making it perfect for families or groups. What stood out most was the excellent value for money—this place offers so much for the price. Right across from the hotel is a serene rose garden, where I enjoyed morning coffee surrounded by blooming flowers. It's also just a short walk to the waterfront, ideal for a relaxing stroll along the shore. The only downside is that it’s a bit farther from the airport, but the local transport links are solid—public transit makes getting into the city quick and easy. Staff were friendly and helpful throughout our stay, contributing to a very pleasant experience. Overall, this is a fantastic choice if you're looking for comfort, charm, and a peaceful atmosphere without breaking the bank.
Staying at Carnmore Hotel Takapuna was a fantastic experience—great value for money and perfectly located in the heart of Takapuna. We spent two nights here and loved how walkable everything was, with the main shopping area just a short stroll away. The room was spacious and well-equipped with a fridge, microwave, and other kitchen essentials—perfect for preparing simple meals. There’s even a cozy little coffee shop just 100 meters from the hotel, ideal for a morning pick-me-up. Best of all? Free parking, which is a huge plus for travelers driving in. Clean, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed, this motel exceeded our expectations. Definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Auckland.
Staying at Quest Parnell was a fantastic experience. The neighborhood is quiet and peaceful, perfect for unwinding after a busy day. Being located just a short walk from the main shopping street makes everything convenient—restaurants, boutiques, and cafes are all within easy reach. The housekeeping staff were prompt, professional, and genuinely helpful, always going the extra mile to ensure comfort. The room was clean, well-maintained, and spacious with modern amenities. I felt right at home from the moment I arrived. With its excellent location, friendly service, and peaceful atmosphere, I’d definitely stay here again. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Auckland.
Absolutely loved my stay here—feeling completely at home in this spacious 2BR apartment. The location is unbeatable, just a short walk from Westfield Newmarket and close to public transit, making it super easy to explore Auckland. The host was responsive, friendly, and incredibly helpful throughout the entire booking and check-in process. Everything was clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully equipped—felt like living in your own private space. Great value for the price, and the overall experience earned every single point on the rating. Would definitely book again if I’m back in Auckland.
I only had a day in Auckland and needed a place to store my bags while going for a run. The friendly host opened the door right away and even let me continue my training right there at the property—such a thoughtful touch! The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and the location is unbeatable, just steps from the beach with fresh sea air all around. It’s amazing how much comfort and convenience you can get in such a peaceful spot. I’ll definitely come back if I ever visit Auckland again.
This is my third stay at Gamma Hotel, and I’m still thoroughly impressed. The room was spotless and well-maintained—cleanliness is clearly a priority here. Located just a short walk from Queen Street, it’s incredibly convenient for accessing Auckland’s main business district, shopping areas, and dining spots. I especially appreciate the small kitchenette; while compact, it’s extremely clean and rarely used by other guests, making it ideal for preparing your own meals. A quick trip to a nearby supermarket lets you pick up fresh ingredients and enjoy a change of pace from eating out. Public transit access is also excellent—getting around the city is seamless. For comfort, convenience, and value, this hotel truly delivers. I’ll definitely be back.
Staying at The Bays Bed & Breakfast in Auckland was an absolute delight. The room was spotlessly clean, cozy, and filled with natural light—perfect for a relaxing getaway. The host, originally from Fiji, was incredibly warm and welcoming, sharing stories about his culture and local life with genuine enthusiasm. Breakfast was a highlight—fresh, thoughtfully prepared, and full of flavor. I especially loved the homemade jam and fluffy pancakes. The location is fantastic, just steps away from the waterfront, making it ideal for morning walks or watching the sunrise over the bay. With its friendly vibe, attention to detail, and unbeatable charm, this place offers amazing value. I’d happily return and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Auckland.
I requested a room change during my stay, and the staff promptly accommodated me with another room that was just as nice as the one I had on day one. The new room was quiet, clean, and well-maintained—exactly what I expected from this place. The location is super convenient for getting around Auckland, especially if you're using public transit. The overall experience was excellent, and I truly appreciate how responsive and helpful the team was. I’d definitely book here again without hesitation.
Staying at Devonport Motel was an absolute delight. The moment we walked in, we were greeted with a peaceful, serene atmosphere that made the whole experience feel like a true retreat. Located just a short distance from downtown Auckland, it's incredibly convenient for exploring the city—whether you're taking public transit or driving, everything is within easy reach. The rooms are clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully furnished, offering comfort and quiet throughout the night. We especially appreciated the calm, quiet surroundings, which made for a restful and refreshing stay. It’s not just a place to sleep—it feels like a home away from home. Highly recommend this gem for anyone looking for a peaceful yet accessible getaway in Auckland.
We stayed at Terry and Cindy's Bed and Breakfast for two nights during our six-week trip to New Zealand, and it was absolutely outstanding—no other way to describe it. The hosts, Terry and Cindy, are among the friendliest people we’ve met in New Zealand. Their home feels warm and welcoming from the moment you walk in. The room is spacious, immaculately clean, and well-equipped; we even enjoyed a cozy meal inside one evening when it started raining. Breakfast is served family-style and was delicious—fresh, homemade, and full of care. It’s located just a 10-minute bus ride from downtown Auckland, with restaurants, shops, and cafes all within a 15-minute walk. Perfect for travelers who want comfort, hospitality, and great location without the hassle. We couldn’t recommend this place more highly—it truly made our journey special.
Staying at Parnell Pines Hotel was a pleasant surprise overall. The front-facing cafe is now closed, and there’s no formal reception area—just a simple key drop—but the hotel itself is clean, quiet, and well-maintained. We were really impressed by how peaceful it was, especially considering its location in central Auckland. The beds were comfortable, making for a restful night’s sleep. Parking was an issue though—the designated spots are extremely tight, with some requiring a 15-point turn to enter or exit. It felt more hassle than it was worth, but thankfully, street parking and nearby lots are plentiful and free. With that in mind, the convenience of the location still makes up for the parking challenges. Overall, we were very happy with our stay and would definitely consider returning.
Staying at Copthorne Hotel Auckland City was an absolute highlight of my trip! The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, especially to Chinese guests—no language barriers at all. I was truly impressed by how thoughtful and attentive they were throughout my stay. The breakfast buffet was outstanding—huge variety with plenty of options that catered perfectly to Asian tastes: fresh dim sum, congee, local pastries, and more. It’s rare to find such a generous spread at this price point, making it excellent value for money. The hotel is ideally located just a short walk from the city center and close to public transit, so exploring Auckland was super convenient. There's also ample free parking—which is a big plus if you're driving—and a self-service laundry room, which comes in handy on longer stays. Clean rooms, reliable Wi-Fi, and a peaceful atmosphere made this a perfect base for both business and leisure travel. If you’re visiting Auckland, this hotel should definitely be at the top of your list.
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