Motutaiko Island

Motutaiko Island is formed out of a column of rhyolitic lava, connected to the geologic systems of the Taupō Volcano. The island was likely formed after an underwater magma vent's releases cooled and hardened into a cone, with Motutaiko forming the apex at 452 m (1,483 ft) above sea level.^[2][3]

There has recently been little volcanic seismicity directly under Motutaiko Island compared to adjacent areas of Lake Taupō.^[4]

Several endangered species live on the island, including Wainuia clarki. Other animals present on the island include a colony of cormorants and the small-scaled skink.^[5] The type specimen for this small skink was captured there in 1971 before being found elsewhere in the central North Island.^[6] Its bellbird population was preserved during the species great dieback after European colonisation and may have allowed more rapid repopulation in the Taupō area.^[7]

The island is spiritually significant to the Māori people, and landing on the island is therefore prohibited by the government.^[8] Te Rangi-tua-matotoru, a major chief of the Ngāti Tūwharetoa, was buried in a sacred cave on the island in the late 18th century.^[5]

The taniwha of Lake Taupō, named Horomatangi, is said to live in a cave on the island's northeastern face.^[3] The creature is also said to be the pet of Ngātoro-i-rangi.^[8]