Last updated July 2026
Te Pae Mahara Roulston War Memorial Park, commonly known as Roulston Park, is located at the corner of East Street and Stadium Drive in central Pukekohe, directly beside Navigation Homes Stadium. The park received a major upgrade completed in late 2025 by Auckland Council in partnership with mana whenua, transforming it into a welcoming community space with improved play facilities, accessible paths, barbecue areas and picnic spots. It serves families attending stadium events as well as locals seeking a convenient green space near the town centre. The park retains its historical role as a war memorial site while incorporating cultural design elements reflecting the area’s heritage.
Practical Information
| Address | Corner of East Street and Stadium Drive, Pukekohe |
| Adjacent venue | Navigation Homes Stadium, 21 Stadium Drive |
| Facilities | Playground, barbecue, picnic tables, accessible paths, drinking fountain, toilet block, seating |
| Accessibility | All-weather paths with rubber matting suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs |
| Cost | Free |
| Parking | Three new car parks on East Street plus nearby street parking |
| Nearby | Pukekohe Pioneer Cottage heritage site adjacent to the park |
About the Park
The park occupies land originally donated by William Roulston for a World War One memorial. A memorial column and gates were unveiled on the site on 6 November 1921 by Prime Minister William Massey. In 1980 the memorial column was relocated to the Pukekohe War Memorial Town Hall so that commemorative ceremonies could be centralised. The park keeps its memorial name, with Te Pae Mahara gifted by mana whenua and translating to “the area of memories”, acknowledging both the First World War and earlier conflicts in the region including the New Zealand Wars.
The 2025 upgrade addressed previous access and safety issues by adding controlled intersections, a wide loop path, perimeter fencing with planting, and enhanced amenities. Mana whenua collaborated throughout the design process, incorporating cultural narratives and artwork. The result is a more usable park that supports Pukekohe’s growing population and encourages town-centre activity.
Improved pedestrian access now connects the park safely to the town centre, bus and train interchange. The site also features a historic cottage and continues to function as a memorial space alongside its recreational role.
The Playground
The upgraded playground, known as Pehipehi Takaro, was co-designed with mana whenua to reflect local history and stories. Design elements reference pā architecture, terraced maunga, lookout towers, agility walks and play features symbolising historic occupation, ambush and resistance during the New Zealand Wars period. The playspace caters to a wider age range than the previous equipment and integrates cultural mahi toi (artwork) gifted by mana whenua. All-weather surfacing and accessible paths ensure it is suitable for families with prams and wheelchair users. The playground forms a central feature of the revitalised park and encourages extended visits combined with picnics and stadium events.
Pioneer Cottage
The Pukekohe Pioneer Cottage stands immediately adjacent to the park. Originally built in 1859 at Ramarama, it was relocated to the site in 1965 during centennial celebrations and is now managed by the Franklin Historical Society. The cottage is furnished in colonial style and offers visitors insight into early settler life in the Franklin district. It is open to the public on the first and third Sundays of each month from 11am to 3pm, with entry by donation. Its location makes it easy to combine a visit with time at the park.
What Visitors Often Say
The new playground stands out for its thoughtful cultural design and variety of play elements that appeal to different ages. Families appreciate the rubber-matted paths that make the whole park easy to navigate with strollers and wheelchairs, along with the convenient barbecue and picnic facilities.
Visitors note the park feels much more welcoming and safe after the upgrade, with good connections to the town centre and stadium. The combination of play space, heritage cottage and memorial elements creates a pleasant stop for both locals and those attending events nearby.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Urban Development Office: Detailed project page on the park upgrade, including design process, cultural context and facilities.
NZHistory.govt.nz: History of the Pukekohe First World War memorial, including the 1921 unveiling and later relocation.
Franklin Heritage Forum: Information on Pioneer Cottage opening times and the Franklin Historical Society.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Te Pae Mahara Roulston War Memorial Park located?
The park is at the corner of East Street and Stadium Drive in central Pukekohe, next to Navigation Homes Stadium.
When did the park upgrade open?
The comprehensive upgrade, including the new playground and accessible paths, was completed and opened in late 2025.
What does Te Pae Mahara mean?
The name, gifted by mana whenua, translates to “the area of memories” and references both the First World War memorial and earlier conflicts in the region.
Is the playground accessible?
Yes, the playground and paths feature all-weather surfacing and rubber matting designed for wheelchair users and pushchairs.
What cultural elements are in the playground?
The playground incorporates design references to pā architecture, maunga terraces and stories from the New Zealand Wars period, developed in collaboration with mana whenua.
When is Pioneer Cottage open?
The cottage beside the park is open on the first and third Sundays of each month from 11am to 3pm, with entry by donation.
Is there parking at the park?
Three new car parks were added on East Street as part of the upgrade, with additional street parking nearby.
Are dogs allowed in the park?
Standard Auckland Council park rules apply; dogs must be under control and on-leash in designated areas.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
