A tiny island. That’s Rākino. A speck in the vast Hauraki Gulf. But Rākino Island holds secrets. It whispers stories of governors and fishermen. Of ambitious dreams and quiet lives.
Rākino Channel is more than just water. It’s a gateway to this intriguing place. Its waters have witnessed centuries of history. From Māori canoes to modern ferries. The channel itself connects Rākino to Auckland’s bustling life. Yet it also keeps the island peacefully isolated.
In 1862 Governor Sir George Grey acquired Rākino. He envisioned a grand estate. He planted trees. He started building a home in Home Bay. But Kawau Island lured him away. His unfinished dreams remain part of Rākino’s charm.
Later Albert Sanford leased the island. A pivotal figure in Auckland’s fishing industry. He built his family home there. It’s still standing. Made of kauri logs. Rafted from Mercury Bay. A testament to his enduring legacy. Sanford’s company began on Rākino. His fish were sold on Queen Street wharves. The foundation of Sanford Limited.
Dr Maxwell Rickard bought Rākino in 1963. He was a clinical psychologist. A nightclub owner. Even a professional hypnotherapist. He dreamed of a philanthropic community. A clinic for nervous patients. An orphanage. Homes for the elderly. His vision never fully materialized. The island was subdivided.
Today Rākino is home to about twenty permanent residents. They’re self-sufficient. They cherish their privacy. Their island is a haven of peace. Yet it’s not entirely cut off. A solar-powered telephone was once installed. A world first. A testament to the island’s unique history. It remains in use today. Free local calls to Auckland. A modern convenience in a historically significant place.
In 2002 a victory was won. The invasive Norwegian rat was eradicated. Rākino’s unique ecosystem is protected. Its story continues to unfold. A small island. A big story. A quiet place. A rich history. This is Rākino Channel and its island treasure.