Pukekohe's Te Pae Mahara Roulston War Memorial Park now open
13 October 2025
- Pukekohe
- News
- Mana Whenua
- Urban regeneration
- Sustainability
Pukekohe’s town centre has a fresh new look with the official opening of Te Pae Mahara Roulston War Memorial Park, marking a milestone in the town’s ongoing revitalisation.
The opening began with a karakia whakatau (dawn blessing), acknowledging the deep cultural and historical significance of the whenua (land). The upgraded park now offers a more welcoming and accessible space for the community to enjoy.
Improvements to local amenities like the park are part of our broader programme to future proof Pukekohe, attracting investment into the area, and ensuring it remains a strong town centre.
Key features of the upgrade include:
• A modern playground co-designed with Mana Whenua, reflecting the unique stories and heritage of the area
• Improved paths and accessways, including rubber matting to support wheelchair users and those with limited mobility
• A community barbecue, picnic tables, new seating, and an accessible drinking fountain
• Enhanced access to Pioneer Cottage, with new decking and a ramp for easier entry
• Mahi toi (artwork) by four Mana Whenua artists, celebrating local identity and storytelling
• New car parks on East Street to make it easier for families to visit
To further improve safety and connectivity, we partnered with Auckland Transport to install traffic signals at the nearby intersection, helping pedestrians access the park more safely while improving traffic flow and reducing wait times.
The project was delivered through a strong partnership between Te Akitai Waiohua, Ngaati Te Ata Waiohua, Ngaati Tamaoho, Franklin Local Board, council’s Auckland Urban Development Office, and Lite Civil Ltd, with extensive community input shaping the final design.
The Franklin Historical Society played a key role in shaping the park’s design, particularly in preserving its war memorial heritage. Enhancements include new entrance archways inscribed with the word “Remember,” a restored drinking fountain honouring William Roulston’s original gift, along with a new plinth, and updated signage that highlights the park’s historical significance as a war memorial.
“The park upgrade is a key part of the Unlock Pukekohe programme — a broader vision to revitalise the town centre through investment in new homes, infrastructure and public space upgrades, and placemaking. Te Pae Mahara Roulston War Memorial Park supports Pukekohe’s growing population and encourages further investment in the heart of the town. As the closest green space to the centre, it complements recent upgrades to the train station and intersection, with more improvements to come.”
Auckland Council’s Urban Development Office
Richard Davison
A community celebration is planned for summer of 2026 to mark the park’s completion and its role in shaping a vibrant future for Pukekohe.
For more information, visit the project page here.
