Karekare Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Waitakere Ranges, near Karekare Beach, in West Auckland, New Zealand.
The waterfall is approximately 25 meters tall and cascades into a serene plunge pool, which is surrounded by a beautiful picnic area. The falls are easily accessible via an easy walking trail that leads to the waterfall lookout, which takes about 5 minutes to reach. The trail is well-maintained and offers a picturesque view of the surrounding forest, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
At the beginning of the trail, visitors will find the beautiful Opal Pool Stream Cascade, which is a smaller waterfall that flows into a shallow pool. The pool is a great spot for a refreshing dip on a hot day, and the waterfall provides a relaxing background sound. The trail then leads to the main attraction, Karekare Falls, which is a breathtaking sight to behold. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and the sound of the water cascading down the rocks is both soothing and invigorating.
The picnic area near the falls is a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal or snack while taking in the stunning scenery. The area is well-maintained and offers plenty of seating options, making it a great place to spend an afternoon with friends and family. Visitors should note that the parking lot is small and located across the road from the trailhead, so it is recommended to arrive early to secure a spot.
Karekare Falls is located in the small coastal settlement of Karekare, which is sandwiched between the Waitakere Ranges and a large black sand surf beach. The area was traditionally settled by the Te Kawerau a Maki iwi, and Karekare is one of the few locations where textiles created prior to European contact have been preserved. The ocean between Piha and the Pararaha Valley was traditionally known as Waikarekare, referring to the turbulent waters of the Tasman Sea. Over time, the name was shortened to Kakare and Karekare, and began to be used for the beach and the general area.
Karekare is described by Statistics New Zealand as a rural settlement, and covers 6.03 km2 (2.33 sq mi). It is part of the Waitakere Ranges South SA2 statistical area. At the turn of the century, holidaymakers would travel by coach from Glen Eden to stay at the Karekare. In addition to the waterfall, Karekare Beach is also a popular destination for surfers and beach-goers, and is known for its large black sand dunes and stunning sunsets.
Overall, Karekare Falls is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Waitakere Ranges or West Auckland. The waterfall is a stunning natural wonder that is easily accessible and offers a great opportunity to relax and enjoy the beauty of New Zealand's natural landscape.