There is considerable evidence of Maori occupation and it was used as a prison island during the Maori wars. Te Rauparaha and his men were kept prisoner here. The legacy of this is that one Rakino bay is called “Maori Garden Bay”, where the prisoners grew kumara.  It was also used by the British as a prison island for Chief Takanini.

Governor Grey built on Rakino before he built on Kawau island, as initially this was to be his base from which to oversee the governance of New Zealand. His house still stands at home bay.

At the turn of last century, Rakino was owned by the Sanford family, and it was the base for its fishery operation.

Rakino Island prides itself on its isolation and unspoiled status.

One-and-a-half square kilometres in size, there are approximately 120 properties
proudly owned by approximately 20 permanent residents and many weekenders. Over the summer months, the offshore population increases with Auckland boaties, who use Rakino as a favourite stop over.

The inhabitants of Rakino are a fairly self-sufficient lot, each managing their own drinking and waste water and electricity supply.