Opal Pool Stream Cascade is roughly a 45-60 minutes' drive away from Auckland City. The road surface is always sealed.

If you drive from Auckland, follow the road which leads to Piha. A few minutes before arriving in Piha Village, as soon as you see a sign ‘Karekare’, turn left and follow the main road. You have two options: either turn right into Karekare beach carpark which has toilets and a beautiful picnic area, or drive straight and park on the left side of the road as soon as you see the top of the waterfall. The track to the bottom of the falls starts there.

From the road follow an easy walking trail leading to Karekare Falls. You will find Opal Pool Stream cascade (un-signed) at the beginning of the track, roughly 2 minutes from beginning of your walk, to your right. The walk is quite easy; unfortunately, it has some stairs at the beginning so not suitable for wheelchairs/strollers. The swimming hole at the base of the cascade is suitable for swimming, but mainly for kids.

Continue walking the track for a couple more minutes to reach the actual Karekare Falls. Return via the same route.

Many thanks to Merry Moments Photography for a couple of great waterfall's photos (please refer to the Gallery).