Karekare to Mercer Bay loop

Starting from Karekare we will walk up Coman's Track to join the Mercer Bay loop walk, heading around the clifftop with amazing views then back down to the beach and across sand dunes to the waterfall.

The first part of the hike has some steep uphill sections so a good level of fitness is required.

Walking Time: approx 4hrs including breaks.
Distance: approx. 12km
Graded 2.5 on 1-5 group difficulty rating
Led by Mike F. (mob 027 431 9054)

Part of the Hillary trail, this is a great hike with a mix of bush walking and coastal views. As some parts of the track are exposed to the elements make sure you bring suitable clothing such as decent sun protection (hat, light-weight long-sleeved t-shirt etc) as we are now heading into the hot summer months. Also come prepared with something warm and a rain jacket as this is Auckland and the weather can change quickly.

Here’s the plan:
8.45am – Meet Karekare beach carpark. There are toilets here for us to use.
9am – Start hiking
11.15am - Morning tea / early lunch at at scenic lookout point
11.45am - Continue hike via beach and waterfall then return to carpark.
1.00 - 1.30pm – Approx finishing time
Option to swim for those who want to either at the falls or beach. Bring togs and towel if you want to do so.

Bring - Normal hiking gear - and have warm base layers like merino or thermal clothes on or in your pack in case of bad weather, a raincoat, strong footwear with great grip. A hiking pole is also useful for some of the steeper sections. No JEANS!

Food - Bring lunch and snacks plus plenty of water for yourself (min 2l)

Suggest carpooling. Please comment when you RSVP whether you need a lift / can offer lifts, which part of Auckland and your mobile number. It’s up to you to arrange this among yourselves. Please bring $15 cash for your driver if getting a lift or make arrangements to send them a direct bank transfer.

Donation - Due to increased Meetup subscription costs we ask all members to contribute $2 for this hike. You can either bring a gold coin on the day or make the donation direct to our dedicated bank account:
Helen Kerslake-Forbes 06-0998-0909890-03

Any donation money remaining after our 6 monthly subscription is paid will go towards safety gear for the group.

No guests. If you have friends or family who want to join get them to sign-up to Meetup and RSVP.

Also please bring a change of clothes and footwear. You are likely to get muddy and / or sandy.

Be sure to read all the details before you RSVP. If you can no longer attend please update your RSVP immediately to allow others to join. If you pull out at the last minute or don't show up this will be counted as a 'no show'. 3 no shows will trigger a 6 month ban from the group.

I look forward to sharing this walk with you all!
Mike