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Rakino Island in the Hauraki Gulf |
| The Hauraki Gulf is the marine gateway to Auckland |
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Rakino is approximately 1½ km long and ¾ km wide a small island of approximately 146 hectares and has a rugged rocky coastline and several very small bays. The hilly topography comprises a thick mantle of clayey soil that overlies greywacke rock. The island is mostly in pasture with pockets of coastal Pohutukawa. The main wharf where the ferry arrives is at Sandy Bay where there is a community hall and a small library. Once owned by Governor George Gray, the island has around 35 permanent residents in 75 dwellings and attracts a few hundred holiday makers in the summer. Rich soil provides lush green pasture which contrasts dramatically with the blue of the Gulf. Idyllic beaches beckon and the pace is unhurried.
Rakino is sub-divided into blocks of land around 10 acres in size as well as smaller sections around ¼ acre. Homes on the island range from substantial to simple. Today, state of the art 240 volt Solar energy ensures that fridges, washing machines, PC's, TV's, and the World Wide Web can all be used on the island. Rakino had the world's first solar powered public telephone. Boaties, fishermen and divers have long enjoyed the crystal clear waters around Rakino. The area enjoys an abundance of marine life - Orcas, dolphins, penguins, and snapper reputed to be of generous proportions! For America's Cup spectators, both private and corporate, Rakino was perfectly positioned with grandstand views overlooking the Regatta course. Private launch and yacht owners find good deep water anchorage at Pohutukawa, Woody & West bays, and there are several moorings dotted around the Island. Have we missed your business from our listings? Click here.
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