Puketāpapa

Puketāpapa is a volcanic cone in Auckland that rises approximately 110 meters above the surrounding landscape. Its deep crater basin contains water storage facilities that have been in operation since 1961.

The volcano formed approximately 20,000 years ago through fire-fountaining activity from two craters, creating a significant geological structure within Auckland's volcanic field. This ancient activity shaped the surrounding landscape permanently.

The mountain has two names in the Māori language: Pukewīwī refers to a hill covered in rushes, while Puketāpapa means flat-topped hill. Both terms are still used by locals today, reflecting the dual connection to this place.

The site has two parking areas, with the main entrance accessed from Dominion Road and gates operating from 7 am until 7 pm in winter or 8:30 pm in summer. Visitors should plan their timing around these operating hours, especially for early morning or evening visits.

The upper summit area was converted to grassland in 2018 and remains closed to motor vehicles to protect archaeological features. This protection preserves important cultural sites while still allowing visitors to explore the location.