Mercer BayLoop Track

The Mercer Bay Loop Track is popular with locals and visitors alike, winding high above Piha's black sand beaches. It's perfect for a family adventure or a day out with friends.

Start your journey at Log Race Road, where a former radio station once stood. Take a moment to check out the interpretive signs—they’ll give you a glimpse into the historical significance of this outpost.

The track flows best in a clockwise direction. Begin at the entrance on the southern side of the car park and follow the instructions at the cleaning stations to help protect the precious kauri trees in the Waitākere Ranges.

As you set off, the track gently descends through low regenerating forest, leading you to a junction. Here, keep right and head towards the former pā (fortified village) site. If you veer left, you'll find yourself on the restored Comans Track, which takes you all the way down to Karekare Beach. Keep in mind, it’s a steep climb back up, so if time is short, stick to the right.

The path to the lookout point is worth every step. Check out the pou (marker sculpture) marking the pā site, an area of great importance to Te Kawerau a Maki, the Māori iwi who hold authority over this land. Please respect the track and stay on it.

A small lookout platform at the end of the trail offers breathtaking views both north and south. Once you've soaked in the scenery, head back on the track, keeping left. The climb up the coastal route reveals more stunning views and wind-swept forests, eventually bringing you back to the northern end of the car park.

So, grab your mates and hit the Mercer Bay Loop Track for a day of epic vistas, a bit of history, and - if you time it right - a sunset that’ll leave you speechless.