It was a case of déjà vu as nine WOPpers arrived at Te Ahuahu Road, only to find there was no access to Mercer Bay Loop Walk – it wasn't fallen power lines this time but a helicopter transporting gravel for track maintenance. They'll be gone by lunch time, the ranger said.

So we decamped for North Piha and discovered that Glen Esk Road is open again and we could park at the end of the road. First we climbed at a leisurely pace to the three lookout points on the Maungaroa Lookout Track, enjoying the steps and boardwalks, mixed kauri/puriri/nikau forest, and wide views along the Piha coastline. Next we did a speedier hike up to Kitekite Falls and back to the picnic table at the entrance for lunch.

Then we were back in the cars and off to Mercer Bay at last. It was a toe-pinching walk on the newly compacted track down to Te Ahua headland, and a warm walk back up the coastal path in the sunshine, finishing right on 2:30 pm – a combination of the unexpected, good management, timely liaison with the ranger, and three thrilling walks.

April G.
Click here for photos by April and Marion C.