Pukekohe Activities and Attractions You Can’t Miss
Every traveller road tripping around the North Island is likely to come across Pukekohe at some point! Just moments away from State Highway 1, Pukekohe is a country town found at the very southern end of the Auckland region. With all the essential shops and services, it’s the perfect pitstop. Plus, Pukekohe is a great base for exploring the southern Auckland area and it’s awesome countryside activities. Check out some of those activities in this list of things to do in Pukekohe!
Beyond Pukekohe there are far more small towns to explore, so find out what else there is to do in the surrounding area in our 10 Wonderful Things to Do in Waiuku and 6 Things to Do in Howick!
1. Explore the Hunua Ranges
If you’re staying in Pukekohe for a while, don’t miss the wild and wonderful Hunua Ranges! One of the largest regional parks in Auckland, the Hunua Ranges is dense with native bush spread over picturesque valleys. There are many walks to explore this natural environment, but a highlight is a short walk to Hunua Falls! Take a look at 5 Auckland Road Trips You Can’t Miss for more information on walks in the area.
Location: 33km (20.5 miles) northeast of Pukekohe. Access is via Hunua Falls Road and Moumoukai Road.
2. Check Out the Franklin Markets
You can’t visit a country town in New Zealand without checking out a farmers’ market! Pukekohe is no different, so head down to the Franklin Markets, held every Saturday 8am-12pm, to try some local produce, pick up some authentic New Zealand souvenirs, and try some delicious homemade food!
Location: Car park on Massey Avenue.
3. Play a Round of Golf
Set among pretty lakes with water features, trees and all-weather greens, the Pukekohe Golf Club is a must-visit for any serious golfer looking for a more up-market course. Choose from 9-hole or 18-hole course over 5,996m (6,557 yards). For more golf courses to add to the bucket list, see Top 5 Golf Courses in Auckland.
Location: 9km (5.5 miles) north of Pukekohe. 654 Karaka Road.
4. Do Some Shopping and Grab a Bite to Eat
Pukekohe might be considered a suburb of Auckland but it’s actually a self-contained town in itself with all the essential shops and services and then some! You have a huge choice of eateries and cafes to kick back a relax, just moments away from State Highway 1 making it the perfect place for a pitstop.
Location: Pukekohe.
5. Visit the Wrights Watergardens
Wander among the vibrant and beautiful Wrights Watergardens, just a 10-15-minute drive from Pukekohe. There’s a mix of oriental and native flora to admire in between picturesque ponds and the cascading Mauku Waterfall. There’s a cafe on-site so there are plenty of reasons to stay awhile. Note that there is a small entrance fee.
Location: 11km (12 miles) west of Pukekohe. 128 Mauku Road.
More Things to Do Near Pukekohe
Author
Laura S.
This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in New Zealand over 10 years ago and with a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to travel New Zealand. She knows Aotearoa inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience New Zealand’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides and is the co-host of NZ Pocket Guide’s live New Zealand travel Q&As on YouTube.