Exploring Comans Track in the Waitākere Ranges
Comans Track is a stunning trail located in the Waitākere Ranges, Auckland. Starting at the top end of Watchman Road in Karekare, just above the entrance to the Ahu Ahu Track, this path offers a challenging yet rewarding hike. It ascends steeply up the ridge towards Farley Point before transitioning to a cliffside walk above Mercer Bay. The track eventually connects with the Mercer Bay Loop and leads to Piha. You can also connect it to a series of coastal trails that were known as the Hillary Trail Te Ara Tūhura, making it a significant multi-day route for avid hikers.
Scenic Views and Natural Beauty
Hikers on Comans Track are treated to breathtaking scenic views of the coastline and the ranges. The trail offers cliff-edge vistas of Mercer Bay and expansive views from Karekare towards Whatipū. These panoramic sights make the journey particularly memorable.
Flora and Fauna Along the Track
The track passes through areas of forest regrowth, showcasing a variety of native flora. In spring and early summer, the trail is adorned with flowering mānuka and harakeke, followed by the vibrant blooms of pōhutukawa. This seasonal display adds a colourful dimension to the hike.
How to Get There
To reach Comans Track, head to the top end of Watchman Road in Karekare, via Karekare Road or Lone Kauri Road, both from Piha Road.
Another hiking option from Karekare is to head to the beach, then walk south between dunes and lagoons to the Tunnel Point campsite and then to the Pararaha Valley. From there, you can take the Muir and Gibbons Tracks to Whatipū.
