Last updated October 2026
Pukekohe Hill Reserve sits at the highest point on the Pukekohe Five Summits Walking and Cycle Trail, a 21-kilometre loop that connects five volcanic hilltops around the town. The reserve reaches 222 metres above sea level and provides expansive views across the Franklin district on clear days.
The trail begins and ends at Pukekohe Rail Station, passing through parks, reserves, and quiet roads while linking Pukekohe Hill with Belmont Rise, Cape Hill, the Knoll, and Rooseville Park. Walkers and cyclists can tackle the full loop or complete it in shorter stages.
Practical Information
- Location
- Pukekohe Hill Reserve, Pukekohe
- Trail start
- Pukekohe Rail Station (map boards on the walking bridge)
- Full loop distance
- 21km
- Surface
- Mix of sealed paths, gravel, dirt tracks, and grass
- Difficulty
- Moderate, some hillside climbs and varied terrain
- Open
- Year-round
- Dogs
- Permitted on leash
- Cost
- Free
- Parking
- Pukekohe Rail Station
- Facilities
- Toilets at Pukekohe Rail Station
About the Five Summits Trail
The Pukekohe Five Summits Walking and Cycle Trail forms a loop that joins volcanic cones and elevated reserves throughout Pukekohe. It was created by the Pukekohe Tramping Club and officially opened on 10 November 2019 to mark the club’s 50th anniversary.
The route uses existing paths, reserves, and quiet roads to give residents and visitors car-free access to the summits and their views. Each hill offers a distinct perspective, with Pukekohe Hill standing out as the tallest and most prominent feature.
The full 21-kilometre circuit can be walked or cycled in one day or split into sections. Signage at the rail station and along the route helps with navigation. The trail passes through a variety of landscapes, including parks, farmland edges, and suburban streets, making it accessible for different fitness levels.
Walking the Five Summits Trail
Walking sections range from sealed paths in town to steeper dirt and grass tracks on the hillsides. Comfortable footwear with grip is recommended, especially after rain when surfaces can become slippery.
The route is well suited to day walks, with many people completing two or three summits before returning to the starting point. The trail is dog-friendly on leash, adding to its appeal for local walkers. Official maps are available from Herenga ā Nuku and the Pukekohe Tramping Club website.
Views from Pukekohe Hill
At 222 metres, the summit of Pukekohe Hill delivers the broadest outlook on the trail. On clear days the view reaches Rangitoto Island to the north-east and the Sky Tower on the Auckland skyline. The Coromandel Peninsula can also be seen to the east in excellent conditions.
A series of carvings on Pukekohe Hill, made under the guidance of master carver Ted Ngataki and unveiled in 2016, tells the stories of the area and of Ngāti Tamaoho as mana whenua. Cape Hill provides a useful panoramic perspective that shows all five summits at once, helping with orientation along the route.
Where to Learn More
Herenga ā Nuku: official trail information and downloadable map for the full loop.
Pukekohe Tramping Club: background on the trail’s creation and anniversary opening.
Plan My Walk: detailed route description, elevation profile, and walking notes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Pukekohe Five Summits Trail start?
The trail starts and finishes at Pukekohe Rail Station, with map boards on the walking bridge. Parking and toilets are available there.
How long is the full Five Summits loop?
The complete circuit measures 21 kilometres and can be walked or cycled in one day or broken into shorter stages.
When was the Five Summits Trail opened?
The trail was officially opened on 10 November 2019 by the Pukekohe Tramping Club.
Are dogs allowed on the trail?
Yes, dogs are permitted on leash throughout the route.
What views are visible from Pukekohe Hill?
On clear days the 222-metre summit offers views to Rangitoto Island, the Sky Tower, and the Coromandel Peninsula.
Is the trail suitable for cycling?
Yes, the route is designed for both walking and cycling, though a mountain or gravel bike handles the varied surfaces best.
Is there a cost to use the trail?
No, the trail is free and open year-round with no booking required.
Can the trail be completed in sections?
Yes, many walkers tackle two or three summits at a time and return to town rather than completing the full loop in one outing.
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