From its thriving town centre, historic Hawkins Theatre and art galleries, to the rural area of Karaka, which is famous for its thoroughbred industry, Papakura has a perfect mix of town and country.
A fast growing population has meant an increase in new residential and business areas, all helping make Papakura a vibrant metropolitan centre.
A short drive from Auckland, and Papakura offers you a choice of activities from horse riding and treks, native bush walks through many of the scenic reserves, to a more leisurely walk around the many art galleries, and newly refurbished museum.
The name Papakura is a Māori word believed to have originated from papa, meaning earth or flat and kura meaning red, reflecting the rich, fertile soil upon which the community was founded.
“Papakura has a proud heritage, and a rich cultural history, with so much to do and see for visitors of any age” says Local Board Chair Bill McEntee
Papakura Local Board has recently completed a number of projects in the area, including funding the opening of the new military gallery at Papakura Museum, along with the first exhibition, a commemoration of the 100th anniversary of WWI, celebrating Hawkins Theatre's 25th anniversary, along with many local park upgrades, and environmental funding in conjunction with Wai Care.
Other successes include:
- Alcohol Ban Review - Papakura has 19 alcohol ban areas
- Careers Expo in June
- Transport capital fund projects in the town centre.
Papakura Local Board area extends from Drury to Alfriston, and includes Takanini, Hingaia, Red Hill, Pahurehure and the current Papakura town centre.
Papakura population: 45,633 or 3.2 per cent of Aucklanders (2013 Census)
Cultural and sport facilities: Hawkins Theatre, Papakura Art Gallery, Papakura Museum, Papakura Leisure Centre, Bruce Pulman Park.
Things to do in Papakura:
- Take a scenic walk around the Pahurehure Inlet
- Step back in time as your enter into the Papakura Museum, enjoy the rich history of the area
- For the sports fan, check out the NRL Secondary Schools Rugby League Tournament, held in August each year – Bruce Pulman Park
- Put your feet up with a good book, at the Sir Edmund Hillary Library
- Learn to fly at the Ardmore Flying School
- Check out local arts and crafts at the Markets on Broadway every Saturday.
Visit OurAuckland Events for local events coming up and keep up-to-date with what’s happening in Papakura by following the local board on Facebook.
