Only forty minutes from Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau city, discover the laid back atmosphere and natural wonders that the large country town of Pukekohe is home to. Well known as a centre for equestrian and motor sports events, as well as housing a significant farming and horticultural community, Pukekohe also offers a broad range of adventures and activities to explore, and all easily accessible in a Hertz rental car.
Explore the Natural Beauty of the Pukekohe Area
The wide expanses and close proximity to nature in the Pukekohe region means that a range of exciting adventures are right at your fingertips.
Embrace soaring heights at Pukekohe Hill, a volcano that is part of the South Auckland volcanic field and one of the most prominent volcanoes in the region. Also known as the traditional Māori name of Pukekohekohe, Pukekohe Hill’s summit makes for the perfect vantage point to see the town from new heights with panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
For an unmissable nature spot in Pukekohe, head out to the Wrights Watergardens and its majestic waterfall. The Mauku Waterfall is situated within the four acre garden, only fifteen minutes’ drive from central Pukekohe. The carefully-maintained gardens and the sweeping majesty of the divine waterfall makes this a popular destination for weddings, events, and, of course, for travellers from near and far. This hidden gem is the perfect place to sit down by the calm waters and indulge in a picnic as you watch the birds graze the garden flowers.
The abundant farming land and thriving agriculture of the Pukekohe region means that there is a wide selection of fresh local produce to try. The Franklin Markets in central Pukekohe is a popular destination for shopping and browsing the market stalls on a Saturday morning, as well as a great place to discover some handmade Pukekohe gems.
Only forty minutes north of the centre of Pukekohe you’ll find another local go-to for fresh produce. The Clevedon Village Farmers’ Markets, held every Sunday, brings together all the best produce, gifts, plants and food from the surrounding areas.
The Water is Never Far Away from Pukekohe
Despite being an inland town, Pukekohe delivers both the best of land and sea with its ideal location close to a range of water adventures.
After only a thirty minute’s drive to the west coast from Pukekohe, you’ll find the tranquillity of the nearby Awhitu Peninsula. Whilst the peninsular itself is a glorious natural wonderland, the road to get there is just as much of a delight. This scenic drive delivers the exquisite scenery of the lush bush and the turquoise blue horizon of the ocean in front of you as you make your way toward the coast.
The Awhitu Peninsula boasts a range of sandy beaches and sweeping mountains, as well as being the home to the beginning of the country’s longest river, the Waikato River. Wander along the boardwalk that leads to the historic Manukau Heads Lighthouse and watch the ocean roll in over the whitewashed beaches below you. Take a walk through the farmland of Brook Homestead and you’ll find yourself surrounded by sweeping views of Manukau Harbour as it stretches out toward the city skyline.
On the southern side of the Peninsula, discover the magnificent black-sand shores of Karioitahi Beach. This windy bay is one of the many beaches around the country that boasts the unique dark sand, a result of eroded volcanic material.
Port Waikato is also a great town to explore around the river, delivering the best of soaring ocean views and quiet shady spots at the river’s head. Flowing from the Tasman Sea, explore Waikato River from the sandy reserves that separate the ocean from the river. If fishing or surfing is sure to float your boat, then Port Waikato and its variety of water sports is the spot for you. If not, the vast expanse of water that surrounds provides plenty of soaring views and sweeping skylines to sit by and enjoy.
With a Hertz rental car, travelling around Pukekohe and its neighbouring towns make for a great road trip adventure. From the ocean to the hills, you’ll find a plethora of activities and sights to enjoy in this laidback town and surrounding areas.
