Karekare Falls are located about a 45- to 60-minute drive from Auckland City, with sealed roads along the entire route.

To get there from Auckland, take the road toward Piha. A few minutes before reaching Piha Village, look for a sign for 'Karekare' and turn left. Continue along the main road, where you have two parking options: either turn right into the Karekare Beach car park, which offers toilets and a scenic picnic area, or continue straight and park on the left side of the road when you see the top of the waterfall. The walking track to the base of the falls begins from this point.

A short and easy trail leads to the waterfall viewing area, taking around five minutes to reach. At the start of the track, you’ll pass the picturesque Opal Pool Stream Cascade. The path is generally easy to walk, although the initial section includes steps, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs and strollers. However, even from the start of the trail, the view is well worth the trip.

As of 1 May 2018, many forested areas of the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park have been closed to help prevent the spread of kauri dieback disease. This includes the Taraire Track, meaning access beyond the base of the falls is not permitted.

For those with a good level of fitness, there used to be an option to hike the Taraire Track—about a 30-minute one-way climb—to reach the top of the waterfall, where a great swimming spot can be found. If the track ever reopens in the future, don’t forget to bring a towel if you plan to take a dip!