Discover Puhoi: A Slice of Bohemia in New Zealand.

Puhoi isn't just a stop on the road north; it’s a step back in time. Founded in 1863 by Bohemian refugees, this Riverside village is a living monument to resilience. From the iconic "landing stone" where Te Hemara Tauhia welcomed the first settlers, to the world-famous pub and artisan cheese, Puhoi offers a European soul wrapped in New Zealand bush. One of Auckland locals favourite weekend market destinations, find out why Puhoi is a popular weekend escape from the bustling city.

Puhoi River, kayak, paddleboard or swim to the Wenderhome Regional Park

🛶 Top Experiences: The "Best Bits"

• Paddle Through History: Take a kayak down the Puhoi River, finishing at the stunning Wenderholm Regional Park.

• The Historic Pub Crawl: Visit the Puhoi Village Pub. It’s more museum than bar, featuring walls lined with vintage tools and pioneer photography.

• Artisan Tasting: Treat your palate to award-winning goat feta at the Puhoi Valley Cheese Café or a boutique spirit at the Puhoi Organic Distillery.

• The Heritage Trail: Walk from the Saints Peter and Paul Church (1880) to the tiny library—one of the smallest and most charming in the Southern Hemisphere.

  
  

🥾 For the Adventurers: The Puhoi Lookout Loop

Part of the legendary Te Araroa Trail, this 4.8 km loop offers a bird's-eye view of the village.

• The Route: Starts 4 km beyond the village, crossing a scenic swing-bridge.

• Pro Tip: Take the loop clockwise. You’ll get a steep heart-pumper on the way up and a gentler, stepped descent through the Puhoi Domain—breathtaking in its autumn colors.

📸 Best Selfie Spots

1. The Giant Kauri Log: Pose in front of the historic dray wagon—a massive reminder of the village's logging roots.

2. The Swing Bridge: Perfect for that "adventurer" aesthetic.

3. The Bohemian Church: Capture the intricate stained glass (there are 22 unique windows!).

The Verdict: Whether you're an Auckland local looking for a day trip or a traveler heading North, Puhoi is the ultimate place to slow down and soak in the story of NZ’s Bohemian heart.

📍 Local Gems & Quick Facts

Feature	Details
The Museum	Open 12 pm – 3 pm (Perfect for a post-lunch stroll).
The Tea Rooms	Visit Puhoi Cottage (1907) for traditional scones in a historic homestead.
Kids' Choice	Giant ice cream scoops at the Puhoi Cheese Café.
The Name	Puhoi means "Slow Water" in Māori, referring to the gentle tidal river.