Last Updated on August 29, 2024

Pukematekeo Lookout is a scenic viewpoint located in the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park in the Auckland Region of New Zealand’s North Island. It offers stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding area, including the Tasman Sea, Manukau Harbour, Waitakere Ranges, and Auckland City. The lookout is accessible via a short but steep track from the Scenic Drive car park.

The hill itself, Pukematekeo, is a 336-metre peak in the Waitākere Ranges and is the northernmost hill in the ranges. It’s a remnant of one of the eastern vents of the Waitākere Volcano, which was uplifted from the seafloor between 3 and 5 million years ago during the Miocene era. The area is rich in geological history and holds significant cultural and spiritual significance for the local iwi, Te Kawerau ā Maki.

For those interested in exploring the area, Pukematekeo is the starting point for the Pukematekeo Track, a walking track linking the peak and the Waitākere Golf Club to the west. It’s a great spot to visit for both day hikers and those looking to enjoy the views during the early evening, as the lookout is not open after 9pm.

Camping not allowed

Considering that Pukematekeo Lookout is part of the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, it’s important to note that camping is generally not permitted in regional parks unless in designated camping areas.

For those looking to camp within the Waitākere Ranges, there are designated camping grounds such as the Craw Camping Ground in Anawhata Regional Park, which is part of the greater Waitākere Ranges area. It’s always best to check with the Auckland Council or the local park authorities for the most current information on camping regulations and to find out about designated camping areas within the park.

Craw Camping Ground – as an alternative

The Craw Camping Ground is a serene camping area located in the Anawhata region of the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park. It’s situated on a grassy ridge at the site of the old Craw Homestead, offering campers a peaceful setting surrounded by native bush.

Here are some key details about Craw Camping Ground:

• Location: 202 Anawhata Road, Anawhata.
• Access: The campground is accessed via a 10km drive along Anawhata Road, which is a metal, narrow, and windy road not suitable for long vehicles.
• Facilities: The site includes a covered seating area and is an open grassed area perfect for tents.
• Capacity: The campground can accommodate up to 40 people.
• Stay Duration: The maximum stay is 7 nights.
• Check-in/Check-out: Check-in time is at 11am, and check-out is also at 11am.
• Cost: The cost per adult is NZD 10.00 (GST inclusive), and for a child, it’s NZD 4.50 (GST inclusive).
• Booking: Bookings can be made six months in advance, and during the peak season from December 17 to January 31, group bookings are limited to a maximum of 10 people.

The campground is a great base for exploring the nearby Anawhata Beach and the surrounding Waitākere Ranges, including Pukematekeo Lookout . It’s important to note that the main park gates are open from 6am to 9pm during daylight savings hours and 6am to 7pm during non-daylight saving hours. You’ll need a combination code to open the locked access gate, which is provided with your booking confirmation. Remember to follow the local guidelines to protect the kauri trees from dieback disease by cleaning your footwear and equipment at the provided stations.

Pukematekeo Track

The Pukematekeo Track is a popular hiking trail located in the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park. It’s known for its short but steep climb that leads to the Pukematekeo Lookout, offering hikers rewarding views of the surrounding landscape.

• Starting Point: The trail begins from Falls Road.
• Length: It’s a 1.1-mile (1,77 km) point-to-point track, which makes for a little over 2 miles (3,22 km) round-trip.
• Elevation Gain: Hikers will experience an elevation gain of 771 feet (235 meters) as they make their way to the lookout.
• Difficulty: The track is rated as intermediate, with the initial quarter-mile being quite steep, after which it becomes less challenging.
• Environment: The trail is surrounded by mature kauri and lowland podocarp broadleaf forest, making it a beautiful natural experience.
• Access: Dogs are not allowed on the track to protect the local flora, especially from the spread of Kauri dieback disease.

The track is well-loved by locals and visitors alike for its accessibility and the panoramic views it provides at the Pukematekeo Lookout. It’s a family-friendly hike and a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Waitākere Ranges. 

Waitakere Golf Club – close to Pukematekeo Lookout

The Waitakere Golf Club is a unique golfing destination located at the entrance to the Cascade Kauri Park, about a 30-minute drive from Auckland Central City, New Zealand. It’s known for its serene surroundings and a challenging 18-hole course that offers a variety of experiences for golfers of all abilities. The course features 4 par 5’s and a notable 6th hole where players tee off in the bush, adding to the distinctive character of the club.

Contact Waitakere Golf Club

• Address: 35 Falls Road, Auckland 0781
• Phone Number: +64 (0)9 810 9399
• Email: office@waitakeregolfclub.co.nz
• Opening Hours (the office):
  • Monday: 08:00 am – 05:00 pm
  • Tuesday: 09:00 am – 05:00 pm
  • Wednesday: 08:00 am – 05:00 pm
  • Thursday: 09:00 am – 05:00 pm
  • Friday: 08:00 am – 05:00 pm
  • Saturday & Sunday: 07:30 am – 05:00 pm