Mount Saint John, Ancient volcano in Epsom, New Zealand
Mount Saint John is a volcanic cone in Epsom rising about 126 meters above sea level with a crater formation at its summit. The volcano sits surrounded by residential areas and is accessible from several nearby streets.
The volcano formed over 28,500 years ago with its scoria cone subsequently blanketed by ash from nearby Te Tatua-a-Riukiuta eruption. This ancient volcanic activity helped shape Auckland's geological landscape.
The Māori name Te Kōpuke reflects the mountain's importance as a fortified settlement, where visitors can still observe the remains of storage pits and defensive earthworks.
Access points to the mountain are located at several spots including Market Road and Mount Saint John Avenue with established walking tracks connecting them. The terrain is straightforward to walk but can be slippery after rain.
The eruption from this volcano produced Auckland's longest lava flow, which traveled an exceptional distance across the landscape toward the harbor. This geological impact makes it a remarkable feature in the region's volcanic history.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
