Events at Pukekohe Park, Pukekohe

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The Valvoline D1NZ Grand Final - Pukekohe Park Raceway

31 July 2020 Friday / 11:00 AM

Pukekohe Park, Pukekohe

About Pukekohe Park

Pukekohe Park is a multi-purpose racecourse and event precinct in rural Pukekohe, about 40 minutes south of Auckland’s city centre (www.aucklandracing.co.nz). It’s owned by the Counties Racing Club and managed by Auckland Thoroughbred Racing. The park combines an evergreen grass horse racing track with New Zealand’s most famous motorsport circuit (now decommissioned) (sportscarworldwide.com) (commons.wikimedia.org). Inaugurated over 100 years ago, Pukekohe has been one of the North Island’s premier racecourses and the site of legendary events – from the 1963 New Zealand Grand Prix won by Formula 1 champion John Surtees (commons.wikimedia.org) to modern thoroughbred fixtures. Besides racing, the venue hosts community fairs, markets and social events year-round. Its signature features include sweeping parade rings, a long homestretch with a covered grandstand, extensive stabling (for ~200 horses), and the adjacent Navigation Homes Stadium – an open-air field and stands for concerts and sports. In racing circles, Pukekohe Park is famed for the annual Counties Cup Day (a sold-out Group 3 & 2 race meet) every November (www.aucklandracing.co.nz) and as a treasured part of Auckland’s country-town character.

Events and Programming

Pukekohe Park’s calendar is anchored by thoroughbred racedays (about 12–14 per year). Notable fixtures include the TAB Counties Cup Day each November (with Group 3 and Group 2 races) and occasional special meetings such as feature sprint or family race days (www.aucklandracing.co.nz). General race events are typically free to enter (general admission) and have a relaxed country-carnival atmosphere. Outside race days, the venue doubles as an event centre. For decades it also hosted major motorsport – the New Zealand Grand Prix (1963–2000) and the V8 Supercars Auckland SuperSprint (early 2000s and 2013–19) (sportscarworldwide.com) (speedcafe.com). (Motorsport ceased at Pukekohe Park after 2023 as the Club refocused on racing and redevelopment (speedcafe.com).) In recent years the Navigation Homes Stadium at Pukekohe has come alive with large concerts and community events: for example, the HOMELANDS music festival (Nov 2023, 4,500 attendees) and the Maoli tour concert in Jan 2025 (11,200 people) were held there (www.navigationhomesstadium.co.nz). The stadium also hosts local rugby: the Counties Manukau Steelers (Bunnings NPC) play home games here (rs.locationshub.com). Weekly activities include horse training on the all-weather track (day and night) and occasional special events like craft markets, food festivals (e.g. Luna Bites Market in Dec 2025 (www.navigationhomesstadium.co.nz)) or fun runs.

Tickets and Booking

On thoroughbred racedays, general admission to Pukekohe Park is free (www.aucklandracing.co.nz) (www.aucklandracing.co.nz) – you typically only pay for grandstand seats or hospitality packages. All entry is by e-ticket; if you lose a ticket, race officials will resend it on request (www.aucklandracing.co.nz). Corporate and members’ hospitality (the Pukekohe Club Lounge, private boxes, Auckland Racing Club members’ areas) require booking through Auckland Thoroughbred Racing. Racing events usually go on sale weeks or months in advance, especially for major days (sign up on the ATR site for notices). For concerts, sports or special events at the stadium, tickets are sold via the event organisers through authorised sellers; booking fees (around $1.50 per ticket) and GST typically apply (www.aucklandracing.co.nz). Popular events often sell out, so it’s wise to buy early. There is no physical box office at the gate – most tickets are digital – but sometimes (for large events) a ticket booth opens on site. In general, pricing tiers vary by seating level: expect free-to-save GA grass areas, moderate fees for grandstand seats or hospitality tables, and higher-priced VIP packages with dining.

Seating and Layout

Pukekohe Park is mostly open-air with ample grassed viewing areas. Against the main straight stands a covered public grandstand with fixed seating under a roof (www.aucklandracing.co.nz). Behind this stand are accessible parking spaces and wheelchair access. Outside of the stand, racegoers usually watch from the course-side lawns, parade ring enclosure or infield lawns. You may bring your own fold-up chair or picnic rug to the lawn areas (www.aucklandracing.co.nz). There are no restrictions on grass viewing – you can get very close to the finish line and home straightwarnedge fences. Be aware that perspective can place the track’s far turns a bit distant – for the best race views, seats or standing spots near the main straight are ideal. During concerts and sporting events in the Navigation Homes Stadium section, the layout shifts to a U-shaped field: a temporary stage can be set up on one side of the field, while patrons stand on the turf or sit in a 4,320-capacity covered grandstand opposite (www.navigationhomesstadium.co.nz). In those cases, the open embankments and festival field can accommodate up to 12,000 more standing guests (www.navigationhomesstadium.co.nz). Overall sightlines at Pukekohe Park are good – the venue is mostly flat grass so long sightlines across the track or field are unobstructed.

Getting There and Parking

Pukekohe Park is at 222/250 Manukau Road, Pukekohe (postal code 2120). For navigation purposes, you’ll see it signposted from the Southern Motorway (SH1) via Pukekohe exits. An alternate address is “21 Stadium Drive”, used by the navigationhomesstadium.co.nz site – it’s the same precinct. By car, use the main gates (Car Park 2 or 3) as directed by signage; barriers and staff will guide you. Parking is plentiful and free on-site for all events (www.aucklandracing.co.nz) (www.ellerslieevents.co.nz). Note that major events may use overflow fields, but attendants will direct you. Accessible (mobility) parking is available just behind the main grandstand; guests with needs or without a mobility permit should contact the club ahead of time to arrange this (www.aucklandracing.co.nz). Public transport users: Pukekohe station is the terminal for Auckland’s commuter trains, and it’s only about 800 meters (a 10-minute walk) from the stadium complex (www.navigationhomesstadium.co.nz). Several local bus routes also stop near central Pukekohe, from where you can taxi or walk to the Park. For big racing or concert events, special event shuttles have run in the past (and sometimes integrated ticket holders can ride the train for free) – check Auckland Transport promotions ahead of time. Rideshare/taxi drop-off is easy at the main entrance area on Manukau Road or Stadium Drive; from there the whole site is on one level so it’s an easy walk to stands or fields.

Inside the Venue

Inside Pukekohe Park, expect open green spaces and simple facilities. Raceday entry is swift: staff will scan your ticket at the gate and do a quick bag check if needed. There are central pedestrian paths leading to viewing areas. Food and drink vendors (pop-up booths and classic raceday carts) sell hot pies, burgers, coffee, and alcohol. You are welcome to bring your own picnic lunch and non-alcoholic drinks (www.aucklandracing.co.nz); many local racegoers picnic on the grass. Several permanent bars and snack bars operate in the hospitality precincts (for example inside the covered grandstand and club lounge) serving beer and wine. Toilets and baby-change facilities are located near the grandstand and between fields – follow signs or ask staff. There is no official Wi-Fi for the general public, so come prepared (though cell phone signal is usually OK at busy raceday events). People with wheelchairs can move around the main public areas, and stewards or portable ramps are used where needed. Coat checks are not provided (you’re outdoors anyway), but lockers are available for some large events. You’ll also find merchandise stalls on big race days. For security and safety, queues for bars and amenities are orderly; specialist staff can help with first aid or lost children. The overall vibe is very relaxed – typical of a country-racing meet – with families, friends and horse owners mingling on the lawns, or festival-style crowds filling the stadium for music. Keep in mind all racing and events are licensed: given the open-air layout, smoking is confined to designated outdoor areas well away from the track. Audio and lighting quality: the public address and sound system is adequate for race announcements and music, and during stadium concerts it’s professionally amplified (peak sound from the stage is usually clear to the back of the crowd).

Nearby Amenities

Pukekohe town centre is only a few minutes’ drive away and offers plenty of choices. For pre-show dining or a post-event drink, try local pubs and eateries. There are famous pizza and coffee spots like Columbus Coffee or Rendezvous Pizzeria (on King Street), as well as culinary options along King and Wesley Streets (ranging from Indian curries to Thai, fish & chips and cafes). The Red Lion and Longkeeper are popular pubs in town; a cafe or bakery is just a short walk from the stadium. Within a 10-15 minute drive, there are a handful of hotels and motor lodges – for example Touchwood Motor Lodge and Aveda Motor Lodge – which are handy for overnight stays. You’ll find petrol stations and a supermarket (Countdown) a few blocks from the venue on Manukau Road. After an evening event, Auckland’s train service back to the city runs until late, and taxis/rideshares continue at night, so it’s easy to head home. We recommend arriving early in Pukekohe (by 1–2 pm for afternoon racing) to park comfortably or grab lunch, and checking local traffic apps for any weekend delays (the road is normally quiet but events can get busy).

What Makes This Venue Special

Pukekohe Park is beloved for its unique blend of historic heritage and community spirit. It’s not just any racecourse – its home turns double duty as a celebrated motorsports circuit. The track has seen legendary drivers (Bruce McLaren, Jackie Stewart, John Surtees) and horses in its time (sportscarworldwide.com) (commons.wikimedia.org). For many years it hosted the New Zealand Grand Prix and part of the Tasman Series, helping put Pukekohe on the international racing map. Closer to home, its thoroughbred racing is part of Auckland’s identity: the Counties Cup (a local derby night) regularly sells out and is a highlight of the summer (www.aucklandracing.co.nz). Culturally, Pukekohe Park feels like a village green: local families trek out with picnic baskets, kids run around dubely, and riders from rural Franklin decorate their horses. The venue’s open, country-style layout means the action is always visible and accessible – you can wander behind the scenes, visit stables, or chat with jockeys after races. Its location amid farmland and historic avocado farms gives it a picturesque backdrop. In recent times the venue has diversified: transforming the infield into Navigation Homes Stadium turns Pukekohe into one of South Auckland’s go-to outdoor concert and sports arenas (www.navigationhomesstadium.co.nz). Artists and big crowds love the relaxed, festival vibe under the stars. For athletes, it serves as the local rugby stadium (Counties Manukau Steelers) with a strong home crowd advantage. All these layers – a century of racing legacy, close-knit racing club hospitality, and new music/sport events – make Pukekohe Park a cherished local institution that both artists and audiences love to be a part of.

Visitor Tips and Information

Pukekohe Park is mostly flat and open-air, so pack sun protection (hat, sunscreen) for daytime events. Sunglasses and even a foldable chair or blanket can make viewing more comfy on long race days. Since you’re outdoors, always check the weather; rain doesn’t usually cancel a colourful raceday (grass shoes are recommended if it rains). On sunny days, there’s very little shade outside the covered grandstand – consider bringing an umbrella or sun shelter for kids. The grassy lawns can get muddy if wet, so wear sturdy shoes. Feel free to bring sealed bottled water and snacks; you can even bring picnics in general admission zones (www.aucklandracing.co.nz), but coolers or loose alcohol are not allowed. All areas are family-friendly and children are welcome (supervise them near fences and animals). There is no strict age limit for entry, though ticketed events may restrict infants in restaurants or bars. Crime is virtually non-existent here – it’s a safe, wholesome environment – but keep valuables secure (there are no lock boxes except on rare big events). Most amenities accept eftpos/credit cards, but carrying some cash can help at festival stalls. Parking and event staff are very helpful, and accessibility ramps and toilets ensure that people with mobility challenges are well cared-for (designated parking is behind the main stand (www.aucklandracing.co.nz)). Dress codes are generally casual: shorts and sandals are fine in the GA areas (www.aucklandracing.co.nz). If you have a hospitality ticket or lounge access, lean towards “smart casual” – for example, a collared shirt or summer dress (jeans without rips are acceptable, but no beachwear or sports shorts) (www.aucklandracing.co.nz). Remember, electronics (phones, cameras) are allowed for personal photos, but drones or professional filming require special permission. Finally, arrive with your ticket (print or digital) already ready to scan – e-tickets are how you enter in 2025. If you have any special needs (e.g. mobility parking without a permit), call the club office a few days ahead to arrange assistance (www.aucklandracing.co.nz). Above all, whether you’re here for horses or music, soak in the festive local atmosphere – people tend to linger after the last event chatting over a pint or a pie. That friendly country spirit is what makes visiting Pukekohe Park truly memorable.

Do I need to buy a ticket to enter Pukekohe Park?

On thoroughbred race days, admission is free for general spectators – you can simply show up and enter the grounds (www.aucklandracing.co.nz). However, some events (concerts, markets, sports matches) do require tickets or payment. If it’s a special event, check the published details. VIP areas, grandstand seats and hospitality areas usually need a paid ticket. For racing, you can book free e-tickets for covered seating or hospitality online, but GA on the grass is open to all.

Where is Pukekohe Park and how do I get there?

Pukekohe Park is located at 222/250 Manukau Road, Pukekohe (Western Auckland). From the Bombay Hills near Auckland, take the motorway (SH1) and exit at Pukekohe. The venue is signposted from town and motorway exits. Public transport: Auckland’s train line terminates at Pukekohe station, which is about a 10-minute walk (800 m) from the park (www.navigationhomesstadium.co.nz). Local buses also serve central Pukekohe; from there you can taxi or walk. There is no dedicated shuttle for every event, but sometimes special trains or buses operate for major race days.

Is there parking at Pukekohe Park and is it free?

Yes – there is large on-site parking and it is free of charge (www.aucklandracing.co.nz). Ample car parks are available at the racecourse and stadium (including a 190-space lot) (www.navigationhomesstadium.co.nz). On normal busy days, just drive in and park in any marked area. Staff will direct traffic during major events. If the main lot fills up, they will guide you to overflow fields. For accessible parking, look for the disabled spaces behind the main grandstand (you may need a CV or to arrange in advance) (www.aucklandracing.co.nz).

What are the best places to sit or stand at Pukekohe Park?

For horse racing, the covered grandstand on the main straight offers the best elevated view of the finish line, and it’s mostly free seating. Many fans prefer to stand or sit on the lawn just in front of the stand or along the rail of the home straight for an up-close experience. You can also watch from the grassy infield area near the parade ring. There is no reserve seating in general admission – pick a spot on the grass or a folding chair. For concerts at Navigation Homes Stadium, the stage is usually at one end of the field, so seats in the covered stand (facing the stage) or standing in the centre field offer great views.

Can I bring my own food, drinks or chairs to Pukekohe Park?

Yes. On race days, you’re encouraged to make a day of it – you may bring your own picnic (non-alcoholic) and lawn chairs or rugs (www.aucklandracing.co.nz). Gates open early and many people picnic on the grass. Alcohol sold on site is also allowed in the GA areas. During concerts, personal water and snacks are usually fine but always check the specific event policy (some festivals may have restrictions). Just avoid large coolers or professional equipment. Organisers provide food vendors and bars, so a small snack box is usually all you need.

What is the dress code at Pukekohe Park?

The dress code is very relaxed in general admission areas (www.aucklandracing.co.nz). You’ll see most racegoers in t-shirts, shorts, jeans and sunhats – tidy casual attire is perfectly acceptable. There is no need for formal wear in the fields. However, if you have tickets for a hospitality area or hospitality tent, a smart-casual dress code applies (no ripped jeans or sports jerseys, and no beachwear or tank tops) (www.aucklandracing.co.nz). For concerts and sports events at the stadium, usual concert attire (comfortable) works fine. In short: feel free to dress casually, but dress up a bit for upscale areas if you enter them.

Are there any restrictions on bags or cameras?

Generally, there are no strict bag policies at Pukekohe Park – you can bring a normal daypack or beach bag. For big concerts or high-security events, they may do a quick security check on larger bags. Cameras and smartphones for personal use are allowed (bring your own SD card; event photographers often circulate). Drones and broadcasting equipment are prohibited without prior permission. Typical racetrack rules apply: no glass bottles (plastic cups for beverages are used), and no smoking in enclosed spaces (use outdoor smoking zones).

What facilities are there for children and accessibility?

Pukekohe Park is very family-friendly. Children are welcome on the grounds (they should be supervised near horses). There are accessible toilets near the grandstand. For mobility access, there are ramps to viewing areas and the accessible parking behind the grandstand (www.aucklandracing.co.nz). Stroller-friendly paths lead to major vantage points. Service animals are permitted. First aid staff are always on site to assist if needed. In short, the venue is quite flat and open, making it easy for wheelchairs or buggies to navigate.

What food and drink options are available inside the venue?

You will find a selection of race-day favourites: burger and sausage sizzle stands, fish and chips, pies and hot chips, plus coffee and ice cream vendors. Alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, classic cocktails) are sold at licensed bars in the grandstand and around the grounds. Breakfast sandwiches and snacks are often available on horse racing days. If you have special dietary needs, bring a little extra snack. There is no sit-down restaurant; dining is casual and Yout eat at picnic tables or lawns. Also, numerous takeaway food shops and cafes are within a short drive in Pukekohe township for pre/post-event dining.

Is Pukekohe Park wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The main paths and infield are flat grass or solid ground, and ramps are provided to viewing decks. Accessible parking is located behind the main grandstand (www.aucklandracing.co.nz), and designated entry gates are nearby. Once inside, wheelchair users can access the front rows of the grandstand and easy viewing spots on the lawns. Accessible toilets are on site. Staff are trained to assist if needed. In summary, the club makes the venue as open and navigable as possible for disabled visitors.

What are the age restrictions, if any?

There are generally no age restrictions for entry – children are free to attend with an adult. Racedays and many concerts are all-ages. If alcohol is served, only those 18 and over may drink (ID may be checked at the bars). For certain late-night events or special concerts, there might be 18+ policies, but those will be clearly advertised. In normal circumstances, anyone from toddlers to grandparents is welcome.