Lion Rock Track

Out and back

Note on Safety: While you might see older photos of walkers standing on the very peak of Lion Rock, the true summit is now permanently closed to the public. Unstable ground and past rockfalls have made the upper section highly hazardous. For your own safety and out of respect for the cultural significance of the site, please respect the barriers and remain at the designated viewpoint. Trust us, the views from the stone seat are more than enough to take your breath away!

Getting There

Located in the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, Piha is roughly a 45-minute to one-hour drive from Auckland's central business district. The drive itself is incredibly scenic, winding through lush native rainforest before descending dramatically down into the coastal valley.

Once you arrive in the seaside village, finding the trailhead is simple. There is plenty of free off-street parking available in the main Piha Domain carpark, as well as parking bays along Marine Parade right next to the beach. From either parking area, it is just a short, flat stroll across the grass and sand to the base of the rock where the track begins.

Wildlife Spotting

Despite its exposed, coastal nature, the bush clad-slopes of Lion Rock and the surrounding beach are teeming with native New Zealand birdlife. Keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready for these local residents:

• Kererū (NZ Wood Pigeon): These large, heavy birds with metallic green and bronze feathers and distinctive white "singlets" are commonly seen year-round, clumsily landing in the coastal trees.
• Tūī: Listen out for their loud, eccentric mix of melodious chimes, clicks, and wheezes. You will often see them darting through the flax bushes tasting nectar.
• Pīwakawaka (Fantail): These friendly, inquisitive little birds will often flutter right up to you on the track, using the draft of your footsteps to catch disturbed insects.
• Kōtare (NZ Kingfisher): Occasional visitors to the rock, these brightly coloured blue-and-yellow birds can sometimes be seen perched on branches or handrails, scanning the shore for a quick snack.
• Variable Oystercatcher: On the black sands around the base of the rock, you will almost certainly spot these black-bodied shorebirds with bright orange-red bills poking around the tideline.
• Kororā (Little Penguin): While rare and highly nocturnal, these tiny penguins nest along the rocky crevices around Piha between October and February. If you are extremely lucky, you might hear their soft calls near the water's edge at dusk.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Lion Rock Track is a brilliant year-round destination, with each season bringing its own unique charm to the West Coast:

• Summer: Offers the classic Kiwi beach experience. The weather is warm, and you can reward your climbing efforts with a refreshing swim in the ocean. However, the black iron-sand gets incredibly hot in the summer sun, so wearing sturdy shoes (rather than jandals or flip-flops) is essential for the walk.
• Autumn & Spring: These transitional seasons bring crisp, clear air, making the steep climb much more comfortable. The sunsets during these months are often spectacularly colourful.
• Winter: The West Coast is famous for its wild winter storms. Watching the Tasman Sea put on a display of pure, roaring power from the safety of the lookout is an unforgettable experience. Just pack a windbreaker, as the coastal gusts can be incredibly strong and cold.

Best Time of Day: Aim for early morning to beat the midday heat and the crowds, or head up in the late afternoon. Catching the golden hour as the sun dips below the horizon of the Tasman Sea is nothing short of magical.

What to Bring: Ensure you wear footwear with good grip, as the dirt and rock sections can become slippery after rain. Bring a bottle of water, a sun hat, and high-quality sunscreen, as the upper half of the track is highly exposed to the elements.

Local & Regional Context

To stand on Lion Rock is to stand on a site of immense cultural and geological significance. Known traditionally to the local iwi (tribe) Te Kawerau ā Maki as Te Piha, the rock is an ancient volcanic neck—the solidified plug of a massive volcano that eroded away over 16 million years.

The name Te Piha refers to the split-wave patterns that break around the front of the rock, closely resembling the ripple created at the prow of a waka (canoe). Historically, this formidable rock served as a vital defensive pā (fortified village) named Whakaari, which translates to "looking out" or "to hold up to view." The flat terraces near the top once held houses and storage pits, providing a strategic vantage point to guard against approaching rivals. Today, the rock remains a sacred ancestral treasure (taonga) to the local Māori people.

After the Walk

After tackling the stairs, you will have worked up an appetite. Luckily, Piha has some fantastic local spots to refuel, all located just a short distance from the track:

• Brothers Beer & Juke Joint BBQ Piha / Surfside Bites & Brew (0.3km away): Situated upstairs at the Piha Surf Life Saving Club, this is the ultimate spot for a laid-back post-hike drink. Enjoy a wide selection of craft beers, local wines, and slow-cooked American-style BBQ while sitting on the deck overlooking the very surf you just admired from above.
• Aryeh (0.8km away): If you are looking for something a bit more special, head to this exceptional restaurant nestled into the bush-clad hillside. Headed by renowned chef Lucas Parkinson, the menu focuses on organic, wild, and sustainably sourced Aotearoa produce, offering a truly elevated dining experience with stunning ocean views.
• Piha RSA Morepork Kitchen (1.5km away): For a classic, friendly Kiwi pub experience, head slightly inland to the local RSA. It offers great value meals, cold drinks, spacious outdoor decks, and a wonderfully warm, community-driven atmosphere that welcomes locals and visitors alike.

800m away

An exceptional, elevated dining experience by renowned chef Lucas Parkinson, focusing on local, organic, and sustainably sourced Aotearoa produce. Nestled into the bush-clad hillside with views of the beach.