Last updated October 2026
Pukehangi is a western suburb of Rotorua. The suburb features established residential housing and forms part of the western residential corridor extending toward Ngongotahā. It includes the Rotorua Lakes retirement village at 121 Pukehangi Road, which provides lifestyle options for residents over 50.
Official Suburb Facts
- Population (2023 Census)
- About 4,970, down 2% since 2018
- Land area
- 2.89 km²
- Location
- 3.9 km west of central Rotorua
- Council
- Rotorua District Council
- Neighbouring suburbs
- Ngongotahā Valley, Mangakakahi, Western Heights, Sunnybrook
- Ward or local board
- Te Ipu Wai Auraki General Ward (Rotorua District Council)
- Getting there
- Pukehangi Road
- Schools
- Aorangi School (Rotorua), Awhina School/ Activity Centre
Who Lives in Pukehangi
About 4,970 residents in 1,590 households. From the 2023 Census, with the New Zealand figure alongside for comparison.
In Pukehangi
Places and businesses inside the official Pukehangi boundary.
Places
About Pukehangi
Pukehangi lies in the western part of Rotorua and forms part of a continuous residential area. The suburb recorded a median age of 34.4 years in the 2023 census. Housing stock is predominantly single-family dwellings, the majority constructed between 1970 and 1979.
The area shares community connections with adjacent Mangakakahi through local networks. Pukehangi has a diverse population that includes significant Māori, European, and Pasifika residents. Its location offers reasonable access to the Rotorua central business district while maintaining a settled suburban character.
In 2017 the Rotorua District Council identified Pukehangi as a key area for future residential development. The suburb continues to support a mix of families and longer-term residents.
Retirement Living
The Rotorua Lakes retirement village occupies a site at 121 Pukehangi Road and offers designer homes with panoramic views. The village provides resort-style amenities and easy access to local shopping and services. It serves residents seeking over-50s lifestyle living within the western Rotorua area.
Near Pukehangi
Just outside Pukehangi, within 5 km of its centre, nearest first.
Places
Businesses
Where to Learn More
Wikipedia — Pukehangi: demographic, geographic and census data for the suburb.
Rotorua Lakes Village: official site for the retirement village located in Pukehangi.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Pukehangi located in Rotorua?
Western Rotorua, part of the residential corridor between the city centre and Ngongotahā.
Is there a retirement village in Pukehangi?
Yes, Rotorua Lakes retirement village is located at 121 Pukehangi Road and offers over-50s lifestyle living.
What is the housing character of Pukehangi?
Predominantly single-family dwellings, with most homes built between 1970 and 1979.
Which schools are in Pukehangi?
Aorangi School and Awhina School/ Activity Centre are both located within Pukehangi.
What is the main road through Pukehangi?
Pukehangi Road is the suburb’s main road and the address of the Rotorua Lakes retirement village.
Which council ward is Pukehangi in?
Pukehangi is in the Te Ipu Wai Auraki General Ward of Rotorua District Council.
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Explore Rotorua only lists suburbs officially recognised by Land Information New Zealand (LINZ), and Pukehangi is one of them. Suburb boundary: LINZ, CC BY 4.0.