Karekare Falls drops 25 metres into a plunge pool near the western end of the Waitākere Ranges, a short walk from Karekare Beach. It is one of the most accessible waterfall swimming spots in Auckland — the walk from the beach carpark takes about five minutes, and the pool at the base is genuinely swimmable on a warm day. The combination of the falls, the picnic area, and the beach itself makes Karekare one of the most rewarding half-days on the Auckland west coast.
Practical Information
| Location | Karekare, Waitākere Ranges — approx 45–60 min drive from Auckland city |
| Falls height | 25 metres |
| Walk from carpark | Approx 5 minutes — easy, some stairs at the start |
| Parking | Karekare Beach carpark (toilets, picnic area) OR roadside near top of falls |
| Swimming | Plunge pool at base of falls — best in summer; no lifeguards |
| Facilities | Toilets and picnic area at Karekare Beach carpark |
| Kauri dieback | Use wash stations; stay on marked tracks |
| Entry | Free |
About Karekare Falls
Karekare Falls is fed by the stream that runs down from the Waitākere Ranges through the Karekare Valley. The falls pour into a shaded pool beside a picnic area — an unusual combination that makes Karekare feel genuinely civilised compared to the wilder falls deeper in the ranges. The pool fills a natural basin at the base of the cliff and is inviting on a hot day, with the spray from the falls providing natural cooling even without getting fully in.
There are two ways to approach: park at the Karekare Beach carpark and take the short track to the falls viewing area, or continue on the road past the beach turnoff and park roadside near the top of the falls for a different perspective. The beach carpark option is more popular as it allows you to visit the falls and the beach on the same visit. Some stairs at the beginning of the track mean it is not wheelchair-accessible.
Combining with Karekare Beach
Karekare Beach is a short walk from the falls — wild, black-sand, and dramatically set beneath the ranges. Unlike the falls, the beach is not a safe swimming destination due to surf and rip conditions (and no lifeguard patrol). But the combination of a swim in the calm falls pool and a walk on the beach makes for a well-rounded visit. The picnic area at the carpark is a natural lunch spot between the two.
What Visitors Say
“Karekare Falls is the most accessible waterfall on the west coast and probably the easiest one to add to a beach day. The pool is cold but swimmable, the picnic area is lovely, and you’re at the beach in five minutes. It’s one of the best easy wins in west Auckland.” — traveller review, Auckland NZ
Where to Learn More
- Auckland NZ — Karekare Falls: Official Auckland tourism information on the falls and how to visit.
- AllTrails — Karekare Falls Walk: Track details, user reviews and current conditions.
- NZ Waterfalls — Karekare Falls: Description, photos and visitor information from a New Zealand waterfalls database.
FAQ
Is it safe to swim at Karekare Falls?
Yes, the plunge pool at the base of the falls is swimmable and calm — very different from the dangerous surf conditions at Karekare Beach itself. Swim with awareness and note there are no lifeguards.
How far is the walk to Karekare Falls?
About 5 minutes from the Karekare Beach carpark. There are some stairs at the start, but the walk is short and easy.
Is Karekare Beach itself safe for swimming?
No — Karekare Beach is an unpatrolled surf beach with strong rip currents. It is not recommended for swimming. The falls pool is the safe swimming option on this visit.
Where do I park?
Two options: the Karekare Beach carpark (with toilets and picnic area) or roadside near the top of the falls. The beach carpark is generally the better choice as it gives access to both the falls and the beach.
How far is Karekare from Auckland?
Roughly 45 to 60 minutes from Auckland city, depending on traffic. The road is sealed all the way to the carpark.
Karekare Falls pairs well with nearby Kitekite Falls near Piha — both are short drives from each other on the west coast. For more swimming in Auckland, see the full guide.