Mercer Bay Loop Track Auckland
A stunning coastal walk in Auckland's Waitākere Ranges, offering dramatic views of rugged cliffs, black sand beaches, and the Tasman Sea.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Mercer Bay Loop Track Auckland
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning coastal walk in Auckland's Waitākere Ranges, offering dramatic views of rugged cliffs, black sand beaches, and the Tasman Sea.
"Absolutely recommend. The views are incredible and the loop itself isn’t hard, just some incline and decline."
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive by 10:30 AM on weekends to secure a parking spot. :car:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The track is gravel and dirt with inclines; wear sturdy shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Coastal Vistas
Breathtaking views of the rugged west coast, Tasman Sea, and Piha Beach. A photographer's dream!
+1Historic Te Ahua Headland
Explore the site of an important Māori pā (fortified village) with significant cultural history.
Sunset Spectacle
Witness an unforgettable sunset over the ocean, making it a prime spot for golden hour photography.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Parking
Safety First on the Coast
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive by 10:30 AM on weekends to secure a parking spot. :car:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The track is gravel and dirt with inclines; wear sturdy shoes.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Spectacular views mean you might have to wait for photo spots. Go midweek if possible.
🐶 Pet-Friendly (Leashed)
Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome, but be mindful of drop-offs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive by 10:30 AM on weekends to secure a parking spot. :car:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The track is gravel and dirt with inclines; wear sturdy shoes.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Spectacular views mean you might have to wait for photo spots. Go midweek if possible.
🐶 Pet-Friendly (Leashed)
Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome, but be mindful of drop-offs.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially on warmer days, as the track can be exposed to the sun.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the absolutely breathtaking and stunning coastal views from Mercer Bay Loop Track, calling it a must-do for its picturesque scenery and sunset potential. While the loop is manageable, some note the challenging inclines and the need for sturdy footwear. Parking can be an issue on busy days, and a few reviews mention safety concerns, advising caution for solo visitors.
"Visited this morning and spent 2-3 hours doing the loop (probably only takes 30 mins) but was took my time taking pictures and picking my jaw off the floor from the views. The loop does loop around to and from the car park. I saw a review suggesting women don’t go alone but I did and felt safe on the trail. The views are incredible and the loop itself isn’t hard, just some incline and decline. Had service the whole loop, it was clean and beautiful! Absolutely recommend."
Taylor Newton
"Great walk, the views are stunning and worth the drive. I’d recommend getting there by 10:30 for car parking. We did go on Mother’s Day so others days might be better. There is a restroom at the car park. Suitable for most ages over preschoolers. Not stroller friendly"
Leah Hawthorn
"Views can’t compare to anything else ! But fair warning there a plenty of women who have had instances with men on the track even “woman hunts “ where groups of men watch women park at the track and chase them down, to do god knows what ?! Not to mention as well as other cases involving both male & female in Piha missing without a trace :( There are missing person cases that back from over 20 years ago who have never been found please do your research and watch The Black Coast Vanishings. Other than that it’s such a beautiful walk but a shame we can’t go alone at any hour - please don’t come here alone especially as a woman !
FYI this track only has one way in and one way out e.g. you’ll be trapped once you’re at the car park & at the end of the trail, if someone is to follow you .
❤️ stay safe ❤️"
Kiana Burgess
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by car, taking about 45-60 minutes. Public transport is possible but involves a long walk from the bus stop (around 5 hours).
While technically possible, it's not practical. The nearest bus stops require a very long walk, making a car or ride-share the recommended option.
Yes! Many visitors combine it with Comans Track for a longer hike or explore Kitekite Falls and Lion Rock at Piha Beach. +1
Yes, there's a car park, but it fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider weekdays. +1
Driving is the most convenient. The track starts high above Piha, with a dedicated car park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Mercer Bay Loop Track is a free public access area, making it a great budget-friendly option.
The track is generally open from dawn till dusk. There are no official opening or closing times posted.
No booking is required as it's a free, open-access hiking trail.
Most of the time, yes. It's noted as one of the tracks that remained open after recent weather events, though it's always good to check local park advisories.
The main restriction is to keep dogs on a leash due to the cliff edges. Otherwise, it's open to the public.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The loop itself takes about 1 hour to complete, but many visitors spend 2-3 hours enjoying the views and taking photos.
It's considered moderately challenging, with inclines and declines. The hike back up can be challenging for some.
There is one long-drop toilet located at the car park, but no facilities on the trail itself.
No, the track is not stroller-friendly due to its gravel and dirt surface with inclines and declines.
Yes, most visitors report having mobile service throughout the loop.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon for golden hour and sunset is highly recommended for stunning light.
Expect dramatic coastal landscapes, ocean views, rugged cliffs, and beautiful sunsets.
Yes, there are several lookouts along the track offering picturesque scenes. The main lookout near the car park is a popular spot.
It can get crowded, especially at popular viewpoints. Visiting on a weekday or during off-peak hours can help.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A tripod can be useful for sunset shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks as there are no facilities on the trail itself, though a toilet is available at the car park. Visiting on a weekday morning can help avoid crowds, making the experience more relaxed for families. If you have very young children, you might opt to explore just the main lookout points rather than completing the entire loop to ensure comfort and safety.
📸 Photographers & Sunset Chasers
+1 The track itself offers various vantage points, allowing you to capture different perspectives of the coastline and Piha Beach. Be prepared for potentially crowded viewpoints during peak times, so consider visiting on a weekday or arriving early to secure your preferred spot. Bring your wide-angle lens to capture the sweeping vistas and a tripod if you plan on staying for sunset to ensure sharp, well-exposed shots. The changing light throughout the day offers different moods, from the bright blues of midday to the warm, fiery hues of sunset. The sound of the ocean adds a sensory element to the visual feast, making it a truly immersive experience for any photographer.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
However, it's prudent to be aware of the safety discussions found in some reviews. While many solo visitors have had positive experiences, it's always wise to research the area and be mindful of your surroundings, especially if visiting during quieter times. Consider informing someone of your plans and expected return time. The stunning views and the connection with nature can be incredibly rewarding for a solo journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waitākere Ranges
+1Many visitors combine the Mercer Bay Loop with other nearby tracks, such as the Comans Track, which offers a more challenging route and connects to Karekare Beach. This combination provides a more immersive experience of the Waitākere Ranges, allowing hikers to explore diverse landscapes from dense forest to windswept coastlines. The park is also home to significant cultural heritage, including the historic Māori pā site at Te Ahua headland, adding a layer of historical depth to the natural exploration.
+1It's important to note that parts of the Waitākere Ranges have experienced closures due to weather events. However, the Mercer Bay Loop has generally remained open, making it a reliable option for experiencing the west coast's beauty. Always check local park advisories before your visit for the most up-to-date information on track status and any potential maintenance.
The Allure of Piha Beach
From the track, you can see the waves crashing against the shore and the rugged cliffs that frame the beach. This vantage point is particularly stunning during sunset, when the sky ignites with color, casting a warm glow over the landscape. Many visitors choose to do the loop walk and then head down to Piha Beach itself to experience its unique atmosphere up close, perhaps enjoying a picnic on the sand.
While the views from the loop are spectacular, it's worth noting that Piha and its surrounding areas have a history that warrants awareness. Some reviews mention safety concerns, and it's advisable to be informed about the local context. However, for many, the breathtaking scenery and the connection to nature provided by the Mercer Bay Loop and its views of Piha are an unforgettable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit