Kite Kite Falls
Kite Kite falls is a beautiful 40 metre tall multi-tiered waterfall in Auckland’s wild Waitākere Ranges regional park. Hike through dense forest until you reach the base of the falls, where you can have a picnic on the rocks and swim in the natural pool right underneath the falling water. A further track will lead you to the top of the falls, where you’ll find natural plunge pools – the sweeping views over the forest made this one of my most memorable swimming experiences! A stunning spot not one to be missed, so read on for how to visit Kite Kite falls.
Secret Plunge Pools
One of the Waitākere Ranges’ best kept secrets are the hidden pools at the top of Kite Kite falls. Cool off from the Auckland heat by slipping into the icy water, surrounded by nothing but forest and the calls of birds. Sitting in nature’s very own natural infinity pool is certainly not an experience to forget!
Hiking
At only 1.8km each way, the hike from the car park to the base of the falls is fairly easy and clearly signposted – just make sure not to trip over the many tree roots as you will be going through quite dense forest. The trail up to the pools at the top of the falls is steep in places, but the views are well worth the climb! This part of the trail will take about 15 minutes each way.
How to get there
Kite Kite Falls are around 45 minutes drive from Auckland itself. Follow the road to Piha and continue through to the end of Glen Esk Road. There’s lots of space to park your car before making your way through the forest to the Falls. From here you’ll easily spot the start of the track. If you don’t drive, there’s a shuttle bus available between Auckland and Piha.
Know before you go
This is a Kauri dieback protection area, so you’ll need to clean your shoes using the cleaning station at the entrance to the forest so that you don’t inadvertently infect any of the trees.
Weather in the Waitakere Ranges is changeable, so keep an eye on the forecast as this region is prone to heavy rain. I’d definitely recommend visiting on a hot summer’s day.
There are amenities such as toilets and a picnic area available at the start of the trail, as well as in Piha itself. If visiting on a busy day there’s also overflow parking a few hundred meters before the main car park. Definitely pack your togs and a towel as you don’t want to miss out on swimming in this beautiful spot!
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