General Information

Puponga is a very small rural township, situated at the base of Farewell Spit, in the Tasman District of New Zealand.

History

Māori have lived in the Puponga area, from around 700 years ago. It was an important place for moa hunting, collecting shellfish, catching birds and sea fishing.
A small-fortified Pa can be seen at Puponga Point (Abel Head). Law protects all archaeological sites.

Attractions and Activities

The main attraction to this very small area is the Puponga Farm Park. It is a working farm, which combines farming with the protection of archaeological sites, rare native plants and natural features. The Farm also has many public walking tracks, taking visitors to many places of interest. One place is a point with views out to the Pillar Rock Lighthouse, with its panoramic views of the Farm and Farewell Spit. There is a Department of Conservation Office at Puponga Farm Park, where you will find information on the birds and other wildlife to be seen. Other valuable information and help can be obtained here. Visit the Lighthouse by taking the gravel road from Puponga (at the base of the Spit) and you will see the 4 wheel drive track up the hill to the lighthouse. The drive is about 30 minutes each way.
Surf at Wharariki, a dramatic West Coast beach just down the road from Puponga.
Visit an historic pa site at Puponga Point, and visualise how early Māori lived. Puponga has a café, where you can sit down and enjoy a lovely coffee and light meal.

Maori Translation

Puponga - Hunched up.