Pukekohe East Church is a Category II Historic Place at the heart of one of the most significant events of the New Zealand Land Wars in South Auckland. Built in 1863, the church was the site of a battle on 14 September of that year — and still bears bullet holes in its ceiling as direct evidence of the fighting.
Quick Facts
| Built | 1863 |
|---|---|
| Historic status | Category II Historic Place (Heritage New Zealand) |
| Battle date | 14 September 1863 (New Zealand Land Wars) |
| Location | Pukekohe East, Franklin district |
| Significance | Land Wars battle site and burial place of Māori killed in the engagement |
| Managed by | Pukekohe East Church Preservation Society |
About Pukekohe East Church
Pukekohe East Church was completed and opened in early April 1863 by the early settler families of the district. Just five months later, it became a military stronghold when twenty men — ten military settlers and nine special constables under the command of Sergeant Perry — garrisoned the building against a Māori force. Volunteers built a 1.5-metre-high log stockade around the church, about three metres outside the walls, with openings cut for rifle fire.
The battle of 14 September 1863 is now remembered through a memorial at the site, dedicated to the Māori who were killed in the fighting — approximately six of whom were buried nearby. The church and its surrounding land hold deep significance for Ngāti Pou, Ngāti Tamaoho and Ngāti Maniapoto as both a battle site and a place of burial.
The church building has been preserved by the Pukekohe East Church Preservation Society and retains bullet holes in the ceiling — visible reminders of the September 1863 engagement. As a Category II Historic Place, it is recognised by Heritage New Zealand for its cultural and historical significance.
What Visitors Say
“A genuinely moving place to visit. The bullet holes in the ceiling make the history feel very real. The small church is beautifully preserved.”
“One of the most historically significant sites in South Auckland and relatively few people know about it. Worth making the effort to visit.”
Where to Learn More
Pukekohe East Church Preservation Society — detailed history of the church, the 1863 battle, and the preservation work carried out by the society.
NZ History — Pukekohe — historical context for the Land Wars engagements in the Pukekohe and Franklin district area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at Pukekohe East Church in 1863?
On 14 September 1863, twenty men garrisoned the church against a Māori force during the New Zealand Land Wars. A battle occurred and approximately six Māori were killed and buried near the church. The building was fortified with a log stockade, and bullet holes from the engagement remain visible in the ceiling today.
Can I visit Pukekohe East Church?
The church is managed by the Pukekohe East Church Preservation Society. Check with the Society for visit arrangements and access details.
Why is Pukekohe East Church historically significant?
It is one of the few surviving buildings in the Franklin district directly associated with the New Zealand Land Wars. As a battle site and burial place for Māori, it carries significance for local iwi including Ngāti Pou, Ngāti Tamaoho and Ngāti Maniapoto.
What is the historic status of the church?
Pukekohe East Church is a Category II Historic Place under the Heritage New Zealand register.
More Historical Sites in Pukekohe
Pukekohe East Church is one of several historical and cultural sites in the area. See the Historical and Cultural Sites in Pukekohe hub, or explore Things to Do in Pukekohe for the full range of attractions.
