From the south shore of Auckland's Waitemata Harbour, the island of Rangitoto is quickly discernible — and identifiable — by its symmetrical, elongated shape and its 259-metre volcanic summit.

Rangitoto Island is close enough to Auckland for a leisurely daytrip, just 45 minutes away by ferry, and Auckland visitors and locals alike do just that.

Photo: Setting sail for Rangitoto, by Kieran Scott, courtesy Tourism New Zealand