Last updated October 2026
Paerata is a developing residential area located between Pukekohe and Karaka in South Auckland, approximately 40 kilometres south of Auckland CBD. The area was previously farmland and is now the site of the master-planned Paerata Rise township. This development will deliver around 4,500 new homes with a focus on medium-density living and community amenities.
A new commuter rail station at Paerātā is scheduled to open in 2026, providing direct connections on the Southern Line. Residents benefit from a short drive to Pukekohe town centre for shops, services and existing transport links.
Official Locality Facts
- Population (2023 Census)
- About 1,790, up 65% since 2018
- Land area
- 17.91 km²
- Location
- 4.7 km north of central Pukekohe
- Council
- Auckland Council
- Ward or local board
- Franklin Local Board
- Getting there
- Southern Motorway; Southern Line trains from Pukekohe station, a five-minute drive away
- Main shopping
- Pukekohe town centre, a five-minute drive away
- Schools
- Wesley College
- Nearby landmarks
- Paerata Rise township, Wesley College
Who Lives in Paerata
About 1,790 residents in 560 households. From the 2023 Census, with the New Zealand figure alongside for comparison.
About Paerata and Paerata Rise
Paerata Rise is being developed on land that formerly belonged to the Wesley College Trust Board, surrounding the historic Wesley College site. The project transforms former farmland into a modern township that blends semi-rural character with urban conveniences. The master plan emphasises energy-efficient homes, community facilities and integration with the surrounding landscape of rolling hills and views.
The development includes a range of home types and lot sizes from 350 to 650 square metres, creating a medium-density neighbourhood. Planned amenities encompass public open spaces, playgrounds, sports facilities, an early learning centre, schools and a retail precinct. Walkways and cycleways are integrated throughout to encourage active transport within the community.
Paerata Rise forms part of the broader Pukekohe-Paerata growth area guided by Auckland Council’s Structure Plan. The township is designed to support a complete community with local employment opportunities and connections to nearby centres. Construction is progressing in stages, with homes now available for purchase and building.
Pukekohe town centre lies just five minutes away by car, offering supermarkets, cafes, medical services, a library and cinema. The Southern Motorway provides additional road access for commuters. The upcoming Paerātā station will enhance public transport options once operational.
Transport and Connectivity
The Paerātā Railway Station is under construction and expected to open in 2026 as part of Auckland’s rail electrification extension. It will serve the new community and link directly to Auckland CBD via the Southern Line.
Early earthworks and planning approvals have been completed, with the station forming one of three new stops in the south. Residents will also have access to Pukekohe’s existing station in the short term.
Road connections include proximity to the Southern Motorway. The development prioritises walking and cycling infrastructure to reduce reliance on cars for local trips.
Near Paerata
Just outside Paerata, within 10 km of its centre, nearest first.
Places
Businesses
Where to Learn More
Paerata Rise Official Website: Details on available homes, master plan, amenities and current sales.
Auckland Council Pukekohe-Paerata Structure Plan: Official planning framework for land use and infrastructure in the growth area.
KiwiRail Drury Rail Stations: Information on the Paerātā station project timeline and electrification works.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Paerata Rise?
Paerata Rise is a master-planned residential township between Pukekohe and Karaka in South Auckland. It will deliver approximately 4,500 homes on former Wesley College land, with community facilities and open spaces.
When will the Paerātā train station open?
The Paerātā Railway Station is due to open in 2026. It will connect to the Southern Line and form part of the electrification extension from Papakura to Pukekohe.
How far is Paerata from Auckland CBD?
Paerata lies approximately 40 kilometres south of Auckland CBD, with a typical drive time of around 40 minutes outside peak hours.
How far is Paerata from Pukekohe?
Paerata Rise is about a five-minute drive from Pukekohe town centre, providing easy access to shops, services and the existing train station.
What lot sizes are available at Paerata Rise?
Lot sizes in the development range from 350 to 650 square metres, supporting a mix of home types in a medium-density setting.
Are there schools and amenities planned?
Yes, the master plan includes schools, an early learning centre, a retail precinct, playgrounds, sports facilities and extensive walkways and cycleways.
Is Paerata Rise still selling sections and homes?
Yes, house and land packages are currently available through selected build partners, with options for different lifestyles and budgets.
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Explore Pukekohe only lists suburbs officially recognised by Land Information New Zealand (LINZ), and Paerata is one of them. Suburb boundary: LINZ, CC BY 4.0.