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A complete volcanic system would accordingly consist of three 
parts : a tuff-cone , the basis and pedestal of the whole frame ; a 
lava-cone, the chief-mass of the mountain; and a scoria or cinder- 
cone forming the top with the crater, as the annexed wood-cut is 
intended to illustrate. 
In referring the Maori name Rangitoto , according to its 
literal signification “bloody sky,” to fire-phenomena, such as a 
reflection of blazing lava-streams in the nocturnal sky, we would 
have to suppose, that the Auckland volcanoes had not ceased to 
be active till within the latest historical period. This , however, 
seems to me improbable, since there are nowhere traces to be 
found of solfataras, fumaroles or hot springs. That, however, the 
time of their activity belongs to a very recent geological period, 
is shown by the fact that the cinders everywhere occupy the top- 
most surface , and that the lava-streams have taken the course of the 
existing valleys. These valleys, consequently, were already formed, 
when the out -flowings of lava took place; and the surface of the 
country has not essentially changed its appearance since that time. 
