Kitekite Falls – Piha, Auckland

February 19, 2026

Alt: Kitekite Falls cascading through rainforest in Piha Auckland New Zealand

Did you know?

Kitekite Falls is a dramatic six-tier waterfall hidden in the rainforest of the Waitākere Ranges — a cascading veil of water that locals often call "the veil of Piha.

About Kitekite Falls

Just inland from Piha Beach, Kitekite Falls sits deep within the lush rainforest of the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park. The track begins at the end of Glen Esk Road, following the gentle Kitekite Stream through towering nikau palms, ponga ferns, and dense native bush before opening suddenly to reveal the falls.

The waterfall descends in multiple tiers over dark volcanic rock, dropping through narrow chutes and shallow pools before plunging into a calm basin at the base. Mist rises softly from the falling water, catching sunlight through the canopy and filling the forest with a cool, refreshing atmosphere.

The lower pool is a popular summer swimming spot, while smaller cascades and shallow pools along the track offer quiet places to cool off. A steep side track climbs to the top of the falls, revealing sweeping views across the valley toward Piha and the Tasman Sea. Explore more New Zealand swimming spots in our travel guides.

Kitekite Falls is one of Auckland's most iconic freshwater locations and is featured in Swim New Zealand, our guide to the country's most breathtaking waterfalls, rivers, and wild swimming spots. Browse all our New Zealand travel guides.

Map & Location

📍 View on Google Maps
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kitekite+Falls/@-36.9526807,174.484237,17z

🚗 Parking / Trailhead
Search in Google Maps: Kitekite Falls Carpark, Glen Esk Road Piha

How to Get There

Kitekite Falls is located in Piha, about 45 minutes west of Auckland's city centre.

From Auckland, follow Scenic Drive through the Waitākere Ranges toward Piha Road. Continue downhill toward the coast, then turn left onto Glen Esk Road. The carpark is located at the end of the road near Piha Domain.

From the trailhead, the Kitekite Track follows a well-formed path through rainforest for around 1.5 km each way. The track includes footbridges, steps, and a short boardwalk section before reaching the base of the falls. A steeper side track leads to the top — attempt only in dry conditions.