Birthday on Rangitoto

After many years of looking at Rangitoto & wondering, Hana was finally whisked away across the harbour with George, Yas & Theo to climb the volcano & celebrate Hana's birthday. We had a fabulous warm, spring day, exploring the main route. But looks can be deceiving, it's a big volcano & we didn't have time to reach the summit & see the lava caves. Read on to find out what we saw.



Our usual view towards Rangitoto, as you know.



Looking back to the Eastern suburbs of Mission Bay, Kohi & St Heliers.



The lava landscape 'beach'. There's a huge stingray in there somewhere, we glimpsed it briefly before our ferry disturbed it's peace.



The volcano (extinct of course) is about 600 years old and covered in trees & bush and is protected. It's a long way down to the ferry & we're not at the top yet.



The path has been cleared and is relatively easy to start with. It heats up nicely in the sun & stays warm, however it is not a recommended walk on hot days, unless you want to look like a prawn on a BBQ.



Yas leads the way cautiously & found the lava caves, natural tunnels & amazing to see, just as well we brought the torches to explore inside.




"Oh alright, I'll smile just for you Hana"



We're heading back down for our packed lunch, the mystery of the summit left for another day. We can't wait!