Difficulty: Hard (if going to the top) Time: 1 hour Rating: 9/10
I have lived in West Auckland for many years but this is the first time I have been up Lion Rock.
It is quite steep going up and about two thirds of the way up there is a fence and sign saying danger...The day I went there were lots of people going past this sign so I joined them. It is quite precarious so be very careful and I wouldn't be taking children past this point. If you are adventurous and agile then at the top you will be rewarded with spectacular views up and down the Tasman.
It only took half an hour to go up and down Lion Rock so I headed to the far south end of Piha beach to Taitomo Island. The tide was out so it was easy to get to and climb up to explore. There are lots of interesting rock formations around south Piha so well worth a look.
I had lunch at the Piha Surf Club and sat out on the deck. If you timed this walk in the late afternoon this would be a great place to enjoy a meal while watching the sunset.
- Sacha Collins
