Pukekohe is a lively town with a passion for motorsports and a high-octane racing track that also hosts some of New Zealand's top thoroughbred horse races. Pukekohe is also a great base for exploring Auckland, the North Island's most popular city.
Things to do in Pukekohe
Every year, the Pukekohe Park Raceway hosts a prestigious V8 International Supercar event as part of the championship series. On Open Testing Days you can BYO car and follow in the footsteps of F1 masters like Stirling Moss, Graham Hill, Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon. You can also dress up to the nines and attend thoroughbred races.
Give yourself goosebumps at Spookers Haunted Attraction Theme Park, a family-friendly attraction featuring 3D rides and a bone-chilling haunted house. You can outrun villains in the blood-curdling forest of fear and get lost in the spooky corn maze.
In downtown Pukekohe you'll find artisan cafes and restaurants. On Saturdays, stock up on farm-fresh produce at the local farmers market and head down to Ernie's Reserve for a picnic on the grass. In nearby Wrights Water Gardens you can discover a wonderland of lush plants, glassy ponds and cascading waterfalls.
A short drive out of town, the Glenbrook Vintage Railway offers a unique chance to step aboard one of New Zealand's best-preserved steam trains. The 15-kilometre round trip showcases beautiful rural countryside and a handful of picturesque country towns before chugging into Manukau Harbour.
Getting around Pukekohe
The Pukekohe town centre is easy to get around on foot, while a rental car is best for exploring the Auckland region. You can drive from Auckland in 45 minutes or use bus and train connections for a 1.5-hour journey. Pukekohe Train Station is a five-minute stroll from the town centre.