Mount Etna than fiery, associations, before her incorporation into the folklore of Sicily. For another Sicilian conception of the fairy realm or castle of Morgan le Fay – see Fata Morgana (mirage) re. an optical phenomenon common in the Strait of Messina. Volcanic activity first took place at Etna about 500,000 years ago, with eruptions occurring beneath the sea off the ancient coastline of Sicily. About 300,000 years ago, volcanism began occurring to the southwest of the summit (centre top of volcano) then, before activity moved towards the present centre 170,000 years ago. Eruptions at this time built up the first major
Mount Hobson (Great Barrier Island) and stairs to protect the breeding areas and prevent erosion. A number of rare and declining plants on the mainland are largely restricted (or completely restricted) to Great Barrier Island are found on Mount Hobson, these include, "Pittosporum kirkii", "Epacris sinclairii", "Kunzea sinclairii", and also "Olearia allomii". Mount Hobson (Great Barrier Island) Mount Hobson ("Hirakimata" in Maori) is the highest mountain on Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. Located in the centre of the island, it rises above sea level. Various mountain tracks allow relatively easy access to the summit, with the shortest (2 hour) track leading through the famous Windy