Last updated July 2026
The Kitekite Falls walk in Piha is a popular short bush track in the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, leading to a scenic three-tiered 40-metre waterfall on the Glen Esk Stream. The well-formed path with boardwalks and bridges suits families and moderate fitness levels, taking roughly 30–45 minutes one way through regenerating native forest. A natural pool at the base offers swimming when conditions allow, with further pools higher up. The track sits close to Piha’s black-sand beach, making it easy to combine a waterfall visit with coastal time. Always check current track status and water quality before setting out, as temporary closures can follow heavy rain.
Practical Information
| Location | 105 Glen Esk Road, Piha, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park |
| From central Auckland | Approximately 35–40 km, 45–60 minutes drive via Scenic Drive and Piha Road |
| Distance | Approximately 2.7–2.8 km return (out-and-back to base) |
| Time | 30–45 minutes one way to the base; 45–90 minutes return depending on pace and stops |
| Difficulty | Easy to moderate; well-formed gravel and boardwalks with some steps and possible stream crossings |
| Falls height | 40 m, three-tiered |
| Swimming | Pool at the base and upper pools; conditions-dependent |
| Parking | Free near trailhead on Glen Esk Road (can be limited or busy); alternative at Piha Beach car parks then walk along Glenesk Road if vehicle access restricted |
| Dogs | Permitted on a leash; clean all gear at hygiene stations |
| Cost | Free |
| Facilities | Toilets and hygiene stations at or near trailhead; limited mobile reception |
| Status notes | Temporary access restored after storm damage; check Auckland Council track map for closures after rain; loop options may involve new bridges |
About Kitekite Falls
Kitekite Falls (also known historically in variations such as Kitakita) is a three-tiered waterfall dropping 40 metres on the Glen Esk Stream near Piha Beach in the Waitākere Ranges. From certain lookouts the cascade appears taller because of additional white water and pools above the main tiers. The falls sit in regenerating native bush that includes young kauri (rickers), nīkau palms, silver ferns, pūriri and rangiora. Longfin eels are often seen among rocks at the base.
The area was milled for kauri from around 1910, with logs sent downstream to the Piha Mill (operating until 1921). A dam was built at the top of the falls in 1911 to help move logs, later converted to a holding dam. Mature trees were cleared, and regeneration has taken decades. The traditional name may relate to a clicking sound associated with ambush according to Te Kawerau ā Maki kaumātua accounts; Glen Esk was named by early settler William Stockwell after a Scottish valley.
Te Kawerau ā Maki placed a rāhui over Waitākere forest areas in late 2017 to protect kauri from dieback disease. The Kitekite track reopened on Boxing Day 2018 with upgraded boardwalks and covered sections. Storms in 2023 caused further damage; temporary access to the falls has been restored, with ongoing bridge and remediation work (including new crossings on connecting tracks). Climbing off-track on the falls is prohibited except by licensed operators (canyoning is offered under council licence) to protect rare moss and the environment. Stay on formed tracks at all times.
The visitor experience centres on the accessible walk through bush with stream views, the impressive multi-tiered falls, and the chance to cool off in clear pools. It is one of the more popular short walks in the ranges, so expect crowds on fine summer weekends. Pack sturdy footwear, water, and a camera; reception can be poor so photograph the map at the start.
Walking the Kitekite Falls Track
The track starts at the end of Glen Esk Road and follows the Glen Esk Stream through native bush on a well-formed path of gravel, boardwalks and timber bridges. It climbs gradually with minor undulations to a lookout, then descends steps to the base of the falls. The route is suitable for families with reasonable fitness, though some steps and possible rock or stream crossings require care, especially after rain when surfaces can be slippery. Avoid stream crossings in high flow.
From the base, a steeper side track (sometimes called Connect Track) leads in about 15 minutes to the top of the falls and upper swimming holes. The classic outing is an out-and-back to the base; a full loop via Knutzen Track has been affected by bridge damage but is being restored with new structures. Elevation gain is modest (around 70–80 m). The path was upgraded specifically to reduce kauri dieback risk. Allow extra time for photos, swimming and the return climb.
Swimming at Kitekite Falls
The large natural pool at the base of the three-tiered falls is a popular swimming spot in warmer months when water levels and quality permit. The cool, clear water is refreshing after the walk, with the cascade as a backdrop and rocks for sitting. Upper pools above the main falls are also used by those who continue up the side track. Depths vary; the base pool can be deep enough for a proper swim under normal conditions but may shallow in prolonged dry weather or become silty and fast after heavy rain.
Always check Safeswim for real-time water quality forecasts before entering the water. Avoid swimming after heavy rain when the stream carries sediment or runs high. Rocks are slippery; enter carefully and supervise children. Longfin eels inhabit the area. There are no lifeguards. Swimming is free and conditions-dependent. Combine with a picnic on the rocks once dry.
Kauri Dieback Hygiene and Track Care
Kauri dieback (caused by the soil-borne pathogen Phytophthora agathidicida) has heavily affected the Waitākere Ranges. The 2017–2018 rāhui and subsequent track upgrades, including boardwalks at Kitekite, aim to keep people off soil around kauri roots. Use the mandatory hygiene stations at the track entrance: scrub all soil from footwear, gear and any dog paws, then spray. Stay strictly on the formed track and boardwalks. Arrive with clean gear. These measures protect regenerating kauri and the wider forest. Dogs must remain on a leash and also be cleaned.
Combining with Piha Beach
Kitekite Falls sits only a short distance inland from Piha’s famous black-sand beach. Many visitors park near the beach (or use beach car parks if Glenesk Road access is limited) and walk to the falls, or reverse the order for a full west-coast day. Piha Beach offers surfing, swimming between the flags when patrolled, and dramatic coastal scenery with Lion Rock. Check Safeswim for beach water quality and always swim between the red-and-yellow flags under lifeguard supervision, as west-coast beaches have strong rips and currents. Facilities, cafes and the surf club are nearby. The combination of bush waterfall and open beach makes an excellent half- or full-day outing from Auckland.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors frequently praise the scenic bush walk, the impressive multi-tiered falls and the refreshing swimming pool at the base. Many describe the track as easy to moderate with good boardwalks, suitable for families, though some note steps, occasional stream crossings and crowds at the pool on sunny weekends. Arriving early is commonly recommended to secure parking and enjoy quieter conditions.
People often mention the cool clear water for a dip, the chance to continue to upper pools, and the overall rewarding nature escape so close to the city. Sturdy footwear is advised for steps and rocks. Some find the return climb more tiring after swimming, and a few note that the top viewpoint or upper section can feel less spectacular than the base pool experience.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council Waitākere Ranges Regional Park: Official park information, open/closed track map and project updates for storm recovery and access.
Safeswim – Kitekite Falls: Real-time and forecast water quality for swimming decisions at the falls and nearby beaches.
AucklandNZ – Kitekite Falls Path: Visitor overview, location details and practical tips for the walk.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Kitekite Falls walk?
Approximately 2.7–2.8 km return to the base of the falls, typically 30–45 minutes one way or 45–90 minutes return depending on fitness, stops and whether you continue to the top.
Is the track suitable for children and families?
Yes for most families with moderate fitness. The path is well-formed with boardwalks, though there are steps and possible stream crossings. Not suitable for wheelchairs or standard prams.
Can you swim at Kitekite Falls?
Yes, in the base pool and upper pools when conditions allow. Check Safeswim first, avoid after heavy rain, watch for slippery rocks and cold water, and supervise children. No lifeguards.
Where do I park for Kitekite Falls?
Free parking near the trailhead at 105 Glen Esk Road. It can fill quickly or face temporary vehicle restrictions; park at Piha Beach car parks and walk along Glenesk Road if needed. Arrive early in summer.
Are dogs allowed on the Kitekite Falls track?
Dogs are permitted on a leash. Clean all soil from paws and gear at the hygiene stations to protect kauri. Confirm current rules on the Auckland Council site before visiting.
Do I need to use kauri hygiene stations?
Yes. Scrub and spray footwear and equipment at the stations before and after the walk. Stay on the formed track at all times.
Is the track currently open?
Temporary access to the falls has been restored after 2023 storm damage, with ongoing bridge and repair work. Check the Auckland Council open/closed tracks map before you go, as heavy rain can cause temporary closures.
How do I combine the falls with Piha Beach?
The falls are a short distance inland from the beach. Visit both in one trip: walk the falls then head to the black-sand beach for swimming between the flags (when patrolled) or surfing. Check Safeswim for both locations.
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