BLIA Youths Tramping Trip to Rangitoto

Fo Guang Shan New Zealand Young Adult Division carried out an activity “YAD Rangitoto Island Tramping Trip”. The youths gathered early in Fo Guang Shan North Island on 14th November. They were led by Chair Person Zhang Yi Jia and went to the only existing active volcano in Auckland.

Rangitoto is a natural reserve located in Auckland which is the most prosperous city in New Zealand. The island was formed more than 600 years ago. It is the most natural place within the gulf of Auckland. Lava and volcano ashes flow down slowly and formed a 5.5km wide conic island after a large eruption. Different from other volcanoes, Rangitoto Island is covered with more than 200 species of native plants and ferns. The largest Pohutukawa forest in the world is on this island. The red flowers blossom in summer every year. They add a sense of romance and beauty to the island.

BLIA youths went to the island by a ferry to explore the volcanic landscape. It took about an hour to reach the summit on foot. They looked at the faraway Auckland city centre and shared lunch and dim-sum. They expressed their satisfaction to come to the volcanic island because they were so close to the nature. Everybody was filled with the warmth and happiness of life after the walk. They thanked each other for being good companions.