Karekare

Mercer Bay Loop Walk

Walking track

A favourite all season track through low coastal scrub, the Mercer Bay Loop is a great spot to clear the cobwebs, stop and watch the sunset or introduce visiting friends and relations to the wild west coast of Auckland. The track makes its way along the top of the highest sea cliffs in the Auckland region and provides great views north towards Muriwai and south to Whatipu. There is a great spot for a picnic on calm days about half way around the loop. If you are walking the whole loop the climb back to the car park is constant and can be slippery if wet. Elderly or unfit walkers should allow extra time. NOTE: this track has a number of natural features that may pose increased risk to visitors. Please stay away from cliff edges and keep to the track. Do not climb barriers and take notice of signs and closure notices.

What to expect:

Walking tracks will:

• have easy to moderate grades with drained surfaces, generally consisting of a compacted and drained surfaces.
• be well sign-posted with directional signs at track entrances and junctions and have safety signs where required.

Walking tracks may:

• have steps on excessively steep areas.
• have timber boardwalks and bridges over permanent wet areas and waterways.
• have seats and maintained views at areas of interest.
• Walking tracks should be suitable for people with reasonable fitness levels.

Distance:

1.4 km

Time:

1.0 hour

Views:

The track provides great views along the coast in both directions and a couple of benches to watch the sunset.

Wheelchair access:

No

Pram access:

Yes - The track has a gravel surface but is narrow in some locations. The first part of the track may be suitable for an offroad pram (turn around at the first cliffside barrier, where the track begins to descend) however you will need to push the pram up a short climb back to the carpark. Please ensure you take extra care near track edges and lookouts.

Cellphone coverage:

Cellphone coverage is patchy in many locations. Be prepared and for more information read the before you go section of the website. For Vodafone service check, Vodafone coverage map, and for Telecom service check, Telecom coverage map

Toilets:

There is a vault toilet available at the entrance to the track.

Drinking water:

There is no drinking water available. Drinking from the stream is strongly advised against. Please bring enough water for your visit with you in a reusable container.

Directions:
From parking area by site of World War II radar station (now a navigation beacon) at end of Log Race Road, graveled walk passes through regenerating bush and leads around Takatu Head with views over Piha and the Tasman Sea. Walk loops inland then climbs steadily up small valley to gate on south side of Log Race Road parking area. A short branch tracks joins Te Ahua Point with Ahu Ahu Track.

Before you go:
Please read our advice for planning and enjoying your time in regional parks.

Security:
Theft from vehicles is not common but unfortunately can happen. You should take the same reasonable precautions you take when parking at other locations and remember to lock your vehicle and take your valuables with you.