Puhoi Puhoi is a settlement located approximately 50 km north of Auckland. Puhoi is a Maori word which may be translated as "Slow water It was settled in June 1863 by a group of German-speaking migrants from Staab now Bohemia, now a province of the Czech Republic. This has given it the appellation of "Bohemian Settlement". Today the village is still thriving. It features the church, a hotel and a general store which all have their origins from the times of the first settlers. There is a museum which occupies premises that were originally built as the Catholic primary school (1923-1964). In addition there are a number of small industries that have had their origins in more modern times including the Puhoi Cheese Factory The Puhoi Hotel One of NZ’s six most renowned pubs is next. The Puhoi Pub is both pub with meals, museum and accommodation. The Hotel is now one of the Aucklanders bikers favourite haunts. On weekends upwards of 50 and more yuppy bikers are known to keep the hotel busy. Saint Peter and Paul Catholic Church The original settlers were all of the Roman Catholic faith and one of the first things they turned their attention to was constructing a church. This was completed in 1881 and dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul. The first priest was Fr D'ACKERMANN, and was much loved. Fr ADELAAR was appointed Parish Priest in 1877 and he suggested that a church should be erected, and planning began. The community put their heart and soul into the project, collected what each family could give, organised labour and materials. Auckland firms also contributed, and the building was completed at a cost of 264 pounds. The Puhoi Museum The museum is housed in the historic Convent School and displays many exhibits - photographs, models, historic tools and equipment, household items, clothing etc. The Puhoi Cheese Factory The Art of Cheese factory produces 7 different blue cheeses, Camembert, Brie, Mascarpone and Creme Fraiche. Blue cheese is the speciality and the following varieties are produced:Bohemien Blue, Gorgonzola, Blue Brie and the latest creation is "Kaipara Blue, which is a mild, very creamy blue vein. Place Statistics: Coordinates: 36°30′53″S 174°39′44″E Population: 4041 Nearest Large City: Auckland City