Last updated July 2026
Mercer Bay Loop is a short coastal loop track in the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park near Piha that offers dramatic views of sea cliffs dropping to the Tasman Sea. The track starts at the end of Log Race Road and circles Te Ahua headland, providing expansive coastal vistas in both directions. It is managed by Auckland Council as part of the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park and holds cultural significance for Te Kawerau ā Maki. The loop is popular for its accessible yet scenic nature, with the cliffs reaching approximately 60 metres in height.
Practical Information
| Location | End of Log Race Road, Piha, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park |
| Distance | 2.2 km loop |
| Elevation gain | Approximately 174 m |
| Difficulty | Moderate — some steep and narrow sections near cliff edges |
| Time needed | 50 minutes |
| Parking | Small free car park at the track start; fills quickly on weekends |
| Facilities | None on the track; toilets available nearby at Piha or Karekare |
| Cost | Free |
| Dogs | Permitted on a lead |
| Drive from Auckland CBD | Approximately 50 km; allow 50–60 minutes via SH16 and Scenic Drive |
About Mercer Bay Loop
The Mercer Bay Loop provides a compact introduction to the rugged Waitākere coastline. From the car park the track climbs through regenerating coastal scrub and bush before reaching the open headland above Mercer Bay. The route follows the clifftop for a stretch, offering uninterrupted views of the Tasman Sea and the black-sand beaches to the north and south.
The loop descends through bush on the return leg and is well marked throughout. Some sections near the cliff edges are narrow and exposed, with no fencing at the drop-offs, so caution is essential, especially in wet or windy conditions. The track reaches Te Ahua headland, the site of a historic Māori pā.
Mercer Bay itself lies directly below the cliffs and is inaccessible by land. The bay is named after an early surveyor of the area. The contrast between the sheltered turquoise waters far below and the exposed clifftop highlights the scale of the landscape.
The area is part of the Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area, protected under the Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Act 2008. Kauri dieback precautions apply in the wider park, though the Mercer Bay Loop lies outside primary kauri forest zones.
Walking the Mercer Bay Loop
The track is rated moderate and suits reasonably fit walkers. It features concentrated elevation gain early in the ascent and some steep, narrow passages near the cliff tops. The full loop typically takes around 50 minutes. Visitors are advised to stay on the formed path and avoid the cliff edges.
Alternative access is possible via connecting tracks such as Comans Track from Karekare when the direct road is closed for maintenance. The route is popular for short outings combined with time at nearby Piha Beach.
Cycling near Mercer Bay Loop
The Mercer Bay Loop Track is designated as a walking track and is not suitable or permitted for cycling. The terrain includes steep, narrow and exposed sections that are unsuitable for bikes. No dedicated mountain bike trails exist at this specific location. Cyclists seeking coastal or Waitākere experiences should use other designated trails in the regional park network.
Te Kawerau ā Maki Cultural Context
Te Kawerau ā Maki are the mana whenua of the Waitākere Ranges, known traditionally as Te Wao Nui a Tiriwa. The coastline and ranges provided resources including food, timber and rongoā. The Piha and Mercer Bay area served as a fishing ground and travel route. Visitors are asked to respect the cultural and ecological values of the landscape.
What Visitors Often Say
Reviewers frequently highlight the impressive sea cliffs and coastal panoramas achieved in a short time. Many note that the moderate climb is well rewarded by the views and recommend combining the walk with a visit to Piha Beach.
Walkers mention that the small car park fills rapidly on fine weekends and suggest arriving early or later in the afternoon. The track is praised for its accessibility from central Auckland while feeling remote.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council — Mercer Bay Loop Track: Official track page with current conditions, access details and park guidelines.
Auckland Council — Karekare, Waitākere Ranges Regional Park: Broader park information including dog rules and nearby facilities.
Wikipedia — Te Unuhanga-a-Rangitoto / Mercer Bay: Background on the bay and its cliffs with references to primary sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Mercer Bay Loop start?
The track begins at the end of Log Race Road near Piha in the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, approximately 50 km west of Auckland CBD.
How long is the Mercer Bay Loop Track?
The loop measures 2.2 km and takes about 50 minutes to complete.
What is the elevation gain on the Mercer Bay Loop?
The track involves approximately 174 m of elevation gain with moderate steep sections.
Are dogs allowed on the Mercer Bay Loop?
Yes, dogs are permitted on a lead.
Is cycling allowed on the Mercer Bay Loop Track?
No, the track is designated for walking only and is not suitable for cycling due to its steep, narrow and exposed sections.
How high are the cliffs at Mercer Bay?
The sea cliffs above Mercer Bay reach approximately 60 m and are among the tallest in the Auckland region.
Is parking available at Mercer Bay Loop?
A small free car park is located at the track start on Log Race Road. It fills quickly on weekends; early or late afternoon arrival is recommended.
Is the Mercer Bay Loop free to use?
Yes, the track and car park are free.
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