Te Papapa is a quiet local station serving the eastern residential suburbs of Onehunga and the surrounding Onehunga industrial area. It's a modest station in its own right, but punches above its weight as a destination — home to the much-loved Honey Springs café and the Springs Tavern, the acclaimed Epic Beer brewery taproom, and Waikaraka Park with its speedway, football club and the unusual Hochstetter Pond volcanic feature.
From late 2026, the station will be served by the Onehunga West Line, running every 30 minutes to Maungawhau at peak times, and at off-peak times and weekends through to Henderson stopping at all East West Line stations.
Cafes & Bars
Three great reasons to get off the train at Te Papapa — a beloved café, a lively tavern and Auckland's best craft brewery.
"It was my first visit and I absolutely loved it — the café is beautiful, the staff were incredibly friendly, and everything was delicious." Famous for honey butter hotcakes, beautifully presented brunch plates and a wide cabinet of freshly made baked goods. "Cute atmosphere and delicious food — I shared the Honey Butter Hotcake and The Flight with my sister and they were both delicious." One of the area's most celebrated and consistently loved cafés. Open daily from 7am (7:30am weekends).
Mon–Fri 7am–3pm · Sat–Sun 7:30am–3pm
"Outstanding — love this place, good service, good vibes and yummy food!" A well-loved neighbourhood pub with a lovely front courtyard, sandpit for kids, big screens for sport and an extensive drinks list including coconut margaritas. Pizza, mussels, wings, Nutella and pistachio crêpes for dessert. "They gave a little birthday present to my mother-in-law — first time I've ever seen a NZ business do that." Super Bowl watch party host, with the Captain's Iced Tea cocktail a standout. Open daily from 11am.
Daily 11am–11pm
"The best brewery in Auckland — get off at Te Papapa and walk through the industrial area for 10 minutes. Once there enjoy the great beers on tap and do not forget the pizzas!" Epic is one of Auckland's most celebrated craft breweries — pale ales, IPAs, stouts and seasonal specials on tap at reasonable prices. Also home to a huge variety of working pinball machines, a Big Buck Hunter, Daytona racing arcade and a dog-friendly policy. Gluten-free and vegan pizza bases available. "Absolutely love coming here, grabbing a pizza and playing some pinball." Right next to Waikaraka Speedway — perfect for pre- or post-event drinks. Open Thursday–Sunday from midday.
Thu–Fri 12–9pm · Sat 12–9pm · Sun 12–8pm · Closed Mon–WedParks & Sport
A volcanic pond, a speedway circuit and a thriving sports club — all within walking distance of the station.
A fascinating geological feature hidden in a residential street — a pond that formed when an ancient lava cave collapsed, creating a small wetland. "Amazing little park — an old collapsed lava cave now a pond, with some historical information boards." Informative signs at the entrance explain the geological and archaeological history of the site. Good for dogs to run around. "A lovely little urban pocket park with interesting geological and archaeological features." A genuinely unusual and little-known Auckland curiosity, free and always open.
Open 24 hours · Free · Dogs welcome
"An amazing place to visit and enjoy the car races — make sure you see the demolition derby too!" Auckland's last remaining speedway track, hosting family-friendly race nights throughout the summer season. Grandstands are close to the track for exciting action. "Great time out for the whole family — plenty of parking and seating, you can bring a cooler box and blankets to sit on the grass." Check their website for race night dates and ticket prices. Epic Beer is right next door — a perfect combination for an evening out. Train access makes it one of the most car-free sporting events in Auckland.
Event nights only (summer season) · Check programme for dates
Waikaraka Park — Onehunga Sports Football
A well-maintained multi-sport complex at Waikaraka Park, home to Onehunga Sports Football Club (formerly Cornwall AFC), Onehunga Cricket Association, Classic Cricket NZ and Onehunga 7-a-Side Summer Football. "Great grounds, well looked after, clean bathrooms and great coffee on the weekend from the coffee cart." The pavilion building houses the Onehunga Combined Sports Trust. Good football pitches set in a park environment with a friendly club atmosphere.
Match days and training times vary · Check club for schedule⚠️ Ratings and hours can change. Always check venues' own websites or Google Maps for current hours. Always check at.govt.nz for current train timetables.