WHAT TO DO IN FRANKLIN
Come stay with us and explore what Franklin has to offer
Local Markets
Pukekohe market
Held in the public carpark on Massey Avenue and runs every Saturday from 8am to 12pm selling fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, fish, cheeses, local preserves, clothing, tools and much more. For more info visit here.
Pokeno market
Held in a large paddock on Great South Road in the heart of Pokeno Village, just 20 minutes from Villa Te Soro. It runs every Sunday from 8am to 12pm and sells a selection of fresh food, flowers, plants, art, jewellery and more. For more info visit here.
The Clevedon Village Farmers Market
Held at Clevedon Showgrounds every Sunday from 8.30am to 1pm. This beautiful country market offers seasonal fruit, vegetables, plants and delicious food stalls for you to enjoy. We recommend you go with an empty stomach! Located 40 minutes away by car. For more info visit here.
MT WILLIAM DAY WALK
Enjoy a 5km walk to the summit of Mt William, located 20 minutes away by car. For more info visit here.
glen brook vintage railway
Take a ride on a vintage steam train through beautiful rural countryside to the historic town of Waiuku. Located 10 minutes away by car. For more info visit here.
Hampton downs
Hampton Downs is a world class motorsport park and events centre and home to the biggest events in New Zealand. From races to experiences, you can even ride in a race car. For more info visit here.
thunder cross valley dirt bike
Thundercross is totally unique, they are the only dirt bike park in New Zealand with tracks, bike hire and tuition all in the same place. For more info visit here.
Awhitu Penisula and Manukau Heads Lighthouse
Manukau Heads Lighthouse is one of the few visitor-accessible lighthouses in New Zealand and the view from the top is simply spectacular. Located approximately an hour from Villa Te Soro we recommend you take a leisurely drive up the Awhitu Peninsula, enjoying the breath-taking views of the countryside, Tasman Ocean and Manukau Harbour as you go. For more info visit here.
Karioitahi Beach, Waiuku
Head out to the wild West Coast and dig your toes into the black sand of Karioitahi Beach, just a 20 minute drive from Villa Te Soro.
Sunset Beach, Port Waikato
Take a 40 minute drive out to the small rural town of Port Waikato and enjoy a walk or drive along Sunset Beach and a coffee at Sylvia’s café.
nikau caves
Check out the glow worms at Nikau Cave & Cafe, located approximately 75 minutes away by car. For more info visit here.
bracu
Enjoy a wine tasting and olive estate tour at Bracu, located 20 minutes away by car. For more info visit here.
Wrights water gardens
Enjoy a stroll through a picturesque water garden featuring ponds, winding pathways and the iconic Mauku Waterfall. There is also a lovely cafe located here. For more info visit here.
Waitangi falls
Located just 15 minutes away, enjoy this popular local swimming spot and magnificent waterfall. For more info visit here.
Hunua falls
Hunua Falls is located 40 minutes away by car. This a spectacular 30 metre waterfall and one of New Zealand must see waterfalls! For more info visit here.
Hunua ranges regional park
Hunua Regional Park is located 40 minutes away by car. There are plenty of walking and bike tracks to enjoy and it is a beautiful place to picnic. For more info visit here.
