Last updated June 2026
The Kitekite Falls Walk in Piha is one of the most popular short walks in the Waitākere Ranges — a 30-minute one-way bush walk to a three-tiered 40 m waterfall in the heart of the Glen Esk Stream catchment. Family-friendly track with the optional pool swim at the base of the falls when conditions allow.
Practical Information
| Location | Glen Esk Road, Piha, Waitākere Ranges |
| From central Auckland | ~40 km — about 1 hr drive via Scenic Drive and Piha Road |
| Distance | 2.4 km return; 30 min one way to the base of the falls |
| Difficulty | Easy — well-formed track, suitable for families |
| Setting | Glen Esk Stream catchment, Waitākere Ranges native bush |
| Falls height | ~40 m, three-tiered drop |
| Swimming | Pool at the base — conditions-dependent |
| Parking | Free Glen Esk Road car park; busy in summer |
| Dogs | Not permitted — Waitākere Ranges biosecurity |
| Cost | Free |
About the Walk
The Kitekite Falls walk follows the Glen Esk Stream up through native bush from the Glen Esk Road car park — a well-formed track with timber bridges crossing the stream at several points. The path winds through mature kauri and rimu forest, with the stream as a constant companion. After about 30 minutes the track reaches the base of the three-tiered Kitekite Falls — a 40 m drop over three steps with a swimming pool at the base. The combination of accessible walking and impressive falls makes it one of the most popular short walks in the Waitākeres.
Swimming at the Base Pool
The pool at the base of Kitekite Falls is a popular summer swimming spot when conditions allow — clear cool water, bush-fringed, with the falls dropping into the pool as the backdrop. Swimming is conditions-dependent: avoid swimming after heavy rain when the falls are in flood and the pool carries sediment; in dry summer the pool can become shallow. Check Auckland Council’s Safeswim service before swimming. The base of the falls also has rocks suitable for sitting on while drying off.
Kauri-Dieback Hygiene
The Waitākere Ranges have been heavily affected by kauri dieback (Phytophthora agathidicida) and many tracks were closed under a rāhui placed in 2018. Kitekite Falls track has re-opened with upgraded boardwalk and mandatory hygiene station use. Clean all soil from boot soles at the cleaning stations and stay on the formed track throughout. Dogs are not permitted in the Waitākere Ranges for the same biosecurity reason.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council — Kitekite Falls Track — official walking-track page with current condition and closures.
AllTrails — Kitekite Falls Track — GPS route, photos and recent walker reviews.
Safeswim — Waitākere streams — real-time water-quality monitoring.
Kauri Protection — kauri dieback information and hygiene station rationale.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the walk?
2.4 km return — about 30 minutes one way.
Is it suitable for kids?
Yes — well-formed track with bridges and limited climbing. Among the more family-friendly Waitākere walks.
Can I swim at the falls?
Yes when conditions allow — clear cool pool at the base. Avoid after heavy rain.
Where do I park?
Free Glen Esk Road car park at the trailhead. Busy on summer weekends — arrive early.
Are dogs allowed?
No — not permitted in the Waitākere Ranges due to kauri-dieback biosecurity.
Do I need to use cleaning stations?
Yes — mandatory at the track entry. Clean all soil from boot soles before and after.
For more Waitākere waterfalls see Waterfalls in Auckland — including Karekare Falls nearby.
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