Hikes & Walks Around Piha
Surrounded by the wild beauty of the Waitākere Ranges, Piha offers some of the most rewarding walks on Auckland’s West Coast - from gentle bush strolls and waterfalls to dramatic clifftop loops overlooking the Tasman Sea.
Below is our curated guide to the best local hikes, including how long they take, what you’ll see, and where to find them.
Mercer Bay Loop Track
Duration: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (has a steep hill at end)
Distance: ~2.3 km loop
What You’ll See:
Sweeping clifftop views over the Tasman Sea
Rugged West Coast coastline
Open headlands and sculptural pou (carved marker)
Why We Love It: One of the most spectacular short coastal walks in the region - dramatic without being too demanding.
More Info:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/new-zealand/auckland/mercer-bay-loop-track
Kitekite Falls Track
Duration: 45 minutes – 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy (includes a number of stairs)
Distance: ~2.7 km return
What You’ll See:
Lush native bush
A beautiful multi-tiered waterfall (40 m high)
A calm swimming hole at the base
Why We Love It: A classic Piha walk with a rewarding waterfall finish.
More Info:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/new-zealand/auckland/kitekite-falls-track
Marawhara Track
Duration: 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate (many steps)
Distance: ~4.5 km return (up and back)
What You’ll See:
Dense rainforest and tall kauri (viewed respectfully from the track)
Elevated bush canopy and birdsong
Views out to Anawhata (and connects to Anawhata Road) and Whites Beach
Why We Love It: Feels deeper and wilder - a true immersion into the Waitākere bush.
More Info:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/new-zealand/auckland/marawhara-track
Maungaroa Track (New Track)
Duration: ~45 minutes return
Difficulty: Easy (with stairs)
Distance: ~2 km return
What You’ll See:
Regenerating native forest
Elevated views across the ranges
A newly formed walking experience designed to protect the ngahere (forest)
Why We Love It: A newer, gentler option - perfect for a quiet morning walk or post-beach wander.
More Info:
https://www.alltrails.com/new-zealand/auckland/waitakere-ranges
Log Race Road to Karekare Loop
Duration: ~3 hours
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: ~6 km loop
What You’ll See:
Remote bush tracks
Coastal views between Piha and Karekare
A sense of real West Coast wilderness
Why We Love It: For confident walkers wanting a longer, more adventurous outing.
More Info:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/new-zealand/auckland/log-race-road-to-karekare-loop
📍 A Few Gentle Reminders
Track access in the Waitākere Ranges can change due to kauri protection measures - please check signage locally.
Wear sturdy footwear, especially after rain.
Bring water, and take your time - these walks are as much about slowing down as getting there.