The Mercer Bay Loop Track sits high above the Tasman Sea in the Waitākere Ranges, between Piha and Karekare beaches. It’s a 2.1 km loop walk taking around 30–45 minutes (longer with photo stops), with cliff-top vistas, the lookout over Mercer Bay itself, and the remains of the Te Ahua Pā site near the start of the loop.
Practical Information
| Distance | 2.1 km loop |
| Duration | 30–45 min easy pace; 1–1.5 hr with photo stops |
| Setting | Cliff-top above the Tasman Sea, Waitākere Ranges |
| Grade | Easy walking track — well-formed and signposted |
| Start / car park | Log Race Road, off Piha Road |
| From central Auckland | ~40 km — about 1 hr drive |
| Dogs | Not permitted |
| Cost | Free |
About the Walk
The track loops out from Log Race Road through coastal bush to a series of cliff-top viewpoints. The standout view is from the dedicated Mercer Bay lookout — a steep, near-vertical bay carved into the cliffs, with the Tasman pounding the rocks 200 m below. From the lookout you can usually see north to Te Ahua Point and across to the Piha headland, and south toward Karekare. The clifftops are unfenced for long stretches, so keep well back from the edge in wind.
Te Ahua Pā and Cultural Significance
Near the start of the loop, an interpretation panel marks the site of Te Ahua Pā — a Te Kawerau ā Maki defensive pā occupying the headland. The pā took advantage of the same cliff geography that draws walkers now: sheer drops on three sides made it nearly impossible to attack. Visible terraces and pits remain in the ground. Treat the area with respect — it’s a wāhi tapu (sacred site).
Optional Comans Track Extension
For walkers wanting more distance, branching off the loop puts you on the restored Comans Track — a steep descent down to the north end of Karekare Beach. The descent is straightforward but the climb back up is sustained, so allow an extra 1.5–2 hours return and carry water. Comans Track was upgraded as part of the Waitākere Ranges kauri-dieback recovery work.
Where to Learn More
Auckland NZ — Mercer Bay Loop Track — Tātaki Auckland Unlimited’s official visitor page.
Auckland Council — Mercer Bay Loop Track — official council page with current track status, closures and conditions.
AllTrails — Mercer Bay Loop — GPS-mapped route with hundreds of recent walker reviews.
Te Kawerau ā Maki — iwi of the Waitākere Ranges, with cultural background on Te Ahua Pā and the wider rohe.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Mercer Bay Loop?
2.1 km loop, taking 30–45 minutes at an easy pace (1–1.5 hours with photo stops).
Is it suitable for families?
Yes — well-formed track with steady but moderate climb. Just supervise children at the unfenced clifftop lookouts.
Where do I park?
Log Race Road car park, off Piha Road. Limited spaces — arrive early on weekends or summer days.
Are dogs allowed?
No — dogs aren’t permitted, for kauri-dieback hygiene and bird protection.
Can I extend it to Karekare?
Yes — the Comans Track branches off the loop and drops down to Karekare Beach. Allow an extra 1.5–2 hours return for the descent and climb back up.
For more cliff-top walking see Walks in Auckland — including nearby Piha and Karekare Beach.