Swimming hole name: Winstone Track Dam

Water type: Fresh water

Location:

New Zealand, Auckland. Waitakere Ranges on the road to Piha Beach is the Winstone Track commencing from the right hand side as you get towards Piha. If surfing isn't for you, then a 30 minute bushwalk and a dip in this swimming hole is a great alternative.

Directions:

Proceed down the well marked walking track, turn left at the junction and in 5 minutes you'll be at the pools. If you continue past these upstream pools, you'll get to the bottom of the water falls where there is a much bigger and more populated pool.

Water temp: 18 degrees C.

Swimmable Months: January, February

Type of bear that would swim here (Polar-Average-Teddy): Polar

Description:

The size and shape of your classic backyard kidney-shaped pool - but surrounded by fabulous bush and great scenery. Deep enough to jump into from the rocks.

Comments:

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I've been there when everyone is skinnydipping - and at other times when modesty rules. Generally on weekdays (except peak holiays and Saturdays) few if any people come by.

But be prepared - the water is cold.

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Size: 2, No

Beauty: A+

Access: Easy. But lock your car.

Safety commment: Safe for kids - but adults should always supervise younger kids.

Clarity: 9

features: Rocks

size_com: Not high, but you can dive bomb effectively.

swimsuit: optional