Kitekite Falls Walk, Piha | Everything You Need to Know
Are you planning on doing the Kitekite Falls walk? As a local Aucklander, I’ve got you covered with everything you need to know!
Having lived in Auckland for 25 years, I’ve been lucky enough to visit Kitekite Falls, Piha multiple times and it never disappoints. Kitekite Falls is high on Auckland’s must-do list! You can swim at this waterfall meaning it is the perfect way to cool off on those hot summer days.
The great thing is you don’t just get a great view from the bottom, you can make your way to the top as well and that’s even more scenic. Not everyone knows about going to the top either so keep reading to find out what you need to know when visiting Kitekite Falls!
Quick Kitekite Falls Hike stats
Time = 45 mins to 1 hour (excluding the walk to the Upper Falls)
Distance = 2.7km out & back
Difficulty = Easy to Moderate
Important note: Be sure to use the Kauri dieback cleaning stations at the start and end of your walk to protect the kauri trees from disease. Stay on the marked paths to help protect this precious ecosystem.
How to get to Kitekite Falls
Kitekite Falls is located in the western part of Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, near the iconic Piha Beach. If you’re visiting Auckland, Piha is just a 45-minute drive from the CBD, making it a perfect day trip destination. To get to Kitekite Falls, head down Glenesk Road in Piha and follow it to the end, where you’ll find a parking area. There are toilets and picnic tables here, so you can prepare before hitting the trail.
The trailhead starts from the car park, and the track itself is a gradual 30-minute walk to the base of the waterfall. The beach is also worth stopping at if you are out this way, it’s definitely one of the best beaches in Auckland! Be warned though, it is pretty dangerous. There are lifeguards on duty so as long as you swim between the flags and don’t go out too deep you’ll be fine.
The other cool thing about Piha is that it’s a black sand beach. All the beaches on the West Coast have a pretty cool rugged feel to them. If you’re visiting in the heat of summer make sure you’ve got jandals with you so the sand doesn’t burn your feet! That stuff gets HOT.
Walking the Kitekite Falls Track
Lower Kitekite Falls
To get to the base of the waterfall, aka Lower Kitekite Falls it is a 30-minute walk. The track is well maintained and pretty easy so nothing too strenuous. Make sure you take in the scenery as you go, the New Zealand bush is so stunning.
As you make your way towards the falls, you’ll follow the Glen Esk stream and there are a few little side tracks to get closer to this which are worth checking out. You will need to cross, take care as the rocks can get a bit slippery! There are a few hills to conquer too but don’t worry, they aren’t difficult and if you do need to rest there are a few benches. There are also steps leading up to the falls.
It won’t be long until you reach the base of the waterfall, make sure you don’t forget a towel. It’s a great swimming spot in summer! The water can be a bit cold, but it’s incredibly refreshing after your walk. If you’re brave enough, you can even swim behind the falls for a unique experience.
You can stop at the base of Kitekite Falls or keep going to Upper Kitekite Falls. The views are worth it so I highly recommend you keep going!
Upper Kitekite Falls
Most people stop at the base of the waterfall, but if you’re up for it, you can continue your hike to the top of the falls. The trail to the top starts to the left of the waterfall and takes about 30 minutes. It’s not too difficult, and the views from the top are incredible. You can also swim at the top which is the perfect way to cool off.
The first few times I didn’t go any further than Lower Kitekite Falls, mainly because I wasn’t sure how to get up to the upper falls. There is a track and it really isn’t that hard to find so obviously I just didn’t look hard enough…haha.
If you walk to the left side of the waterfall and up the hill a little bit you will see the start of the track. From here to the top of the waterfall is about another half an hour. It’s worth it once you get to the top though! The view is awesome.
When it’s time to head back to the car you can go back the way you came or there’s an alternative route through a kauri-covered set of stairs (the other part in the fork).
If you want to know how to say Kitekite falls correctly, it’s pronounced like kitty kitty falls. Not Kitekite Falls. I totally got caught out by this and I’m Kiwi…whoops!
What to take with you
Here’s a quick checklist of what you should bring along:
- Towel and swimwear (if you plan to swim)
- Water and snacks for the hike
- Comfortable shoes (sneakers are ideal, though jandals might work)
- Sunscreen and a hat if you’re visiting in summer
- Camera for those Instagram-worthy shots
- A rain jacket, just in case, as Auckland weather can change quickly!
FAQ: Kitekite Falls Hike
Can you swim at Kitekite Falls?
Yes, you can swim at both the base and the top of Kitekite Falls. The water can be quite cold, but it’s a refreshing way to cool off, especially on a hot day.
Is the Kitekite Falls walk suitable for kids?
Yes, the walk is relatively easy and suitable for families with children. Just be cautious near the water and ensure that kids stay on the track to protect the surrounding environment.
Do you need special hiking gear for the Kitekite Falls walk?
No special gear is required, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes (sneakers are ideal) and bring swimwear if you plan to take a dip. A towel and sunscreen are also useful if you’re visiting on a sunny day.
How do you get to the top of Kitekite Falls?
To get to the top of Kitekite Falls, take the trail to the left of the waterfall. It’s a roughly 30-minute hike, and the views at the top are well worth the extra effort.
Is there parking available at Kitekite Falls?
Yes, there’s a parking area at the end of Glenesk Road in Piha, which is the starting point for the Kitekite Falls walk. The parking area also has toilets and picnic tables.
Is the Kitekite Falls track open year-round?
Yes, the track is open year-round, but it’s best to check for any closures, especially during and just after heavy rain when the trail can get muddy and slippery.
Final thoughts: Kitekite Falls Piha
Kitekite Falls is a stunning spot that deserves a place on any Auckland must-do list. With its easy access, refreshing swimming spots, and beautiful scenery, it’s perfect for a day out in nature. Being so close to the incredible west coast is something I love about living in Auckland.
Whether you’re hiking to the base of the falls or tackling the trail to the top, you won’t be disappointed by the views. Just remember to protect the area by respecting the environment, cleaning your shoes, and staying on the trail.
Enjoy your visit to Kitekite Falls—it’s one of Auckland’s hidden gems!
