Maungataketake

The volcanic site consists of a former 76-meter scoria cone and a 100-meter wide crater, now altered through quarrying activities.

The volcano erupted approximately 90,000 years ago, producing layers of tuff and ash that preserved sections of the ancient Ihumatao forest.

The mountain location functioned as a pa, a fortified Maori settlement, and its name Maungataketake translates to broad mountain in native language.

Visitors can access the fossil forest remains at the end of Renton Road during low tide, with a picnic table offering observation points.

The volcanic eruption created two distinct preserved forests: surface trees in ash and an older kauri forest in a peat swamp beneath.

GPS coordinates: -36.99421,174.74737

Latest update: March 4, 2025 03:12