Every Friday, Auckland Embassy School organizes a school trip. You can choose to go, or to attend a special class, that is usually mixed with another level. This past Friday we went to Rangitoto Island, a very nice place in Auckland.
We assembled in the morning in front of the old ferry building, and twenty minutes later we arrived at our destination by ferry. On the boat, you can already have a nice view from the Harbour Bridge and all the boats riding on the bay (Auckland is regarded as the city of sailing and it is true). But nothing compares to the view from the top of Rangitoto.
It was interesting. At least for me, when we arrived at the island, I could finally realize how unique a place Auckland is. Although an island, Rangitoto is actually a volcano. It has been inactive for more than 600 years, and because of that, a lot of plants and trees could grow on the place. Seen by far, it resembles a small forest on an island. It is completely safe to walk on and definitely a must see place if you are visiting Auckland. There are more volcanoes spread around the city (and where you can have a nice view), but Rangitoto is by far the best. The view is breathtaking (as you can see from the pictures).
Friday trips are fun and also important. It is always good to have an activity outside the classroom. It is like a lesson, but it doesn't seem like one. You can learn more about the place where you are currently living. You can meet different people from other classes. You can become closer to your classmates and your teacher. And, finally, you get to practice your English in a different situation.
by Andre Campos
To find out more about studying English in New Zealand, visit the Embassy website.
Hi Andre
A nice piece on Rangitoto. And the photos are fantastic!
Did you know that Rangitoto is Maori for "Red Sky", as witnessed by the tribe living on Motutapu when the volcano erupted?
Posted by: Lindsay Spedding | 2 Nov 2009 20:23:07
Nice one Andre, I'm a big fan of Rangitoto too, especially in spring/winter/autumn, as that lava gets really hot in summer and the climb is a bit sweaty! I'd also encourage paddling there in a kayak from Fergs at Okahu bay as an excellent trip. The veiws of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf are best from the top of Rangitoto.
Posted by: Cameron Forbes | 2 Nov 2009 20:26:05
Oops! I mean views of course.
Posted by: Cameron Forbes | 2 Nov 2009 20:28:06
Wow, you managed to get some stunning photos. I agree, Rangitoto gives you such a stunning view of Auckland.
Posted by: Wendy Hill | 2 Nov 2009 20:40:11
Fantastic place! I agree that it's the best view of Auckland. I think every visitor to Auckland should see it! It's a much nicer view than from the Sky Tower.
Posted by: Nic | 3 Nov 2009 03:25:32
Awesome phots, I have not been to Rangitoto, so that's on the list to visit. Brilliant!
Posted by: Bill Curley PreTafy Teacher | 3 Nov 2009 21:21:54
0ops! photos
Posted by: Bill Curley PreTafy Teacher | 3 Nov 2009 21:24:13
Man, your blog is nice! Very good tips. I'm from Brazil too (Manaus), and I'm about to get to Auckland! I wanna go to all these places you mention here...and some others. See you!
Posted by: Celso Guimarães | 10 Nov 2009 02:35:09