Puhoi: River, forest and Bohemian history

On the banks of the Puhoi River, forest landscapes, pioneer history and experiences on the water come together. Puhoi was settled in 1863 by immigrants from Bohemia, an area that is now part of the Czech Republic. Whether you prefer to walk through the forest, learn about the town’s history or go on a paddling trip during your stay, each of these different interests can give your journey its own focus.

Forest trails between the river and the ridge

The Puhoi River runs through the town and provides a habitat for tuna (eels) and numerous native bird species. In the Puhoi Scenic Reserve, the Puhoi to Remiger Road Track leads through podocarp forest. On the flat walk, you’ll encounter kauri, pūriri, tōtara and nīkau trees. Those interested in the landscape and its tree species will find a different way to experience Puhoi here than on a hike with a view.

From the car park at Puhoi Domain, the Puhoi to Remiger Road Track climbs through a community reserve to an open ridge. From there, you can look out over the village and the surrounding valley. The main track entrance is at Puhoi Domain, on the other side of the bridge opposite the historic Puhoi Pub and next to the toilet block. The Puhoi Track is also part of the Te Araroa Trail; its described highlights include different forest types, abundant birdlife and views of the Puhoi Valley.

The Puhoi Lookout Track is a moderately challenging hike of about 40 minutes, reaching an elevation of 100 m. Those who appreciate specific information about walking time and destination can distinguish this route from the forest walks and the view from the ridge. The Puhoi Track is currently open. A short detour through a ford is about 100 m upstream from where the bridge, destroyed by heavy rain in 2023 and not yet replaced, stood.

Bohemian roots and local history

Puhoi’s history can be explored at several sites. The Church of Sts Peter and Paul Puhoi was built by Bohemian settlers to a design by architect James Wrigley and opened on 10 August 1881 at a cost of £264. The Catholic Church of St Peter and St Paul at 83 Puhoi Road is classified as a Category 1 historic place. It is privately owned and not open to the public.

The Puhoi Heritage Museum is housed in a school building that opened in 1923. It replaced the public school that had been in operation since 1872. The Landing Stone is also part of the town’s history: it is a stop on the Pūhoi Heritage Trail, which runs through the village and its pioneer history. Those interested in Bohemian heritage can explore the history of historic buildings and the history of the village as a pioneer settlement as different aspects of their stay.

The Puhoi River and experiences in town

The water offers another way to experience the town. A trip with Puhoi River Kayaks includes an 8 km paddling route on the Puhoi River. People and boats are transported back to Puhoi at a time agreed in advance. Puhoi River Canoes is in the village, opposite the historic church. The river, paddling route and location of these activities in town give your travel plans a distinct focus alongside forest hikes and local history.

At the Pūhoi Village Market, local growers and producers gathered on the lawn in front of the pub on the last Sunday of each month from September to April. Traditional Devonshire tea was served at the Pūhoi Cottage Tea Rooms. These experiences add local market and tea culture to the nature and history on offer.

More destinations

More places to explore: Glen Murray, Onetangi, Leigh, Tuakau, Hunua, Silverdale, Waiwera and Half Moon Bay.

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