Our Island Native Tree Nursery The island is 2.4 km (1.5 mi) long and about 1.2 km (0.75 mi) wide and has an area of 1.5 km2(1 sq mi). The two most popular bays have public access, but three others also have access from the sea. There are smaller bays and beaches without public access. The public wharf is at the south end of Sandy Bay, and a barge access ramp is at the western end of Sanford Way in Home Bay. The hilly topography comprises a fertile layer of volcanic topsoil from Rangitoto Island that overlays a thick mantle of clay soil which in turn overlays greywacke rock. The island is mostly in pasture with pockets of coastal pōhutukawa.

There are around 76 dwellings on Rakino Island though the permanent population is only approximately 22 as of 2016. Rakino, with its few permanent residents and its small size, and with a limited public ferry service, has little attraction for commuters. Residents welcome its isolation and privacy.

Coordinates: 36°43′S 174°57′E