Ramarama is a rural community in the Franklin district of Auckland, sitting along the Southern Motorway corridor between Pukekohe and Bombay. Once a quiet farming area, it has experienced rapid growth — the population increased by over 60 percent between the 2018 and 2023 censuses, reaching nearly 3,000 residents. The motorway exit at Ramarama (exit 466) and the surrounding lifestyle block land have made it an increasingly attractive location for those wanting rural living within commuting distance of Auckland.
At a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Location | Southern Motorway corridor, between Pukekohe and Bombay |
| Population | ~2,931 (2023 census) — up 61.8% from 2018 |
| Motorway Exit | Exit 466, SH1 Southern Motorway |
| Ramarama School | Full primary (Years 1–8), roll ~214, established 1867 |
| Community Hall | Ramarama Hall — events and community gatherings |
| Character | Rural-residential — lifestyle blocks, small businesses, convenience store |
About Ramarama
Ramarama sits in an interesting position — physically divided by the Southern Motorway, which was constructed through this section in 1978. On one side, the older rural settlement and community hall; on the other, newer lifestyle block development that has accelerated the area’s population growth in recent years.
The main settlement contains a convenience store and several small businesses, with the Ramarama Hall serving as the community gathering point. The hall is conveniently located near the motorway exit and hosts local events, making it the social hub for what is otherwise a dispersed rural-residential area.
Ramarama School has been part of this community since 1867, making it one of the older schools in Franklin. With a roll of around 214 students, it serves the wider Ramarama area including many families on lifestyle blocks along Ararimu Road and the surrounding rural roads.
The area’s rapid growth reflects broader trends in South Auckland — households looking for rural space and lower land prices within reach of the motorway to Auckland. Ramarama’s position on SH1 makes it a practical choice for commuters, with Auckland’s urban fringe accessible in under an hour from the motorway exit.
The eastern side of Ramarama is where you’ll find the rural roads leading toward the Maketu Waterfall — an 8-metre waterfall on the Maketu Stream that’s popular with swimmers and walkers in summer.
Where to Learn More
Wikipedia — Ramarama, New Zealand — population data, motorway history and background on the Ramarama community.
Auckland Council — Ramarama Hall — information on the Ramarama Hall community venue near the motorway exit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Ramarama?
Ramarama is a rural community in the Franklin district of Auckland, on the Southern Motorway (SH1) between Pukekohe and Bombay. The motorway exit is at exit 466.
How has Ramarama grown so quickly?
Ramarama’s population grew by over 60 percent between the 2018 and 2023 censuses. Lifestyle block development along roads like Ararimu Road has attracted families seeking rural living with motorway access to Auckland.
Is there a school in Ramarama?
Yes — Ramarama School is a full primary school established in 1867 with a roll of around 214 students. It’s one of the older schools in the Franklin area.
What is the Ramarama Hall?
The Ramarama Hall is a community venue located near the motorway exit. It hosts local events and serves as the social gathering point for the dispersed Ramarama community.
Is Ramarama good for commuters?
Yes — the motorway exit at exit 466 provides direct access to SH1, making it possible to commute to Auckland’s urban areas. Pukekohe’s train station is also within a short drive for those preferring rail.
Explore all areas on the Pukekohe Suburbs page. Bombay is nearby to the south, also on SH1. The Maketu Waterfall near Drury is accessible via the rural roads east of Ramarama.
