Mention Pokeno and the next word must be bacon! Most long-standing locals are familiar with Pokeno Bacon, which started life in the village but now has several shops throughout the district.

However, the original butchery is still dear to many a traveller’s heart. For a number of years when State Highway One ran through the middle of the town, Pokeno was the preferred place to grab great bacon, ham, sausages and pork cuts for the freezer and for some folk it still is – the quality of this butcher’s products are second to none!

Of course, no one called into Pokeno without also stopping for an ice cream – these remain as big and as luscious as ever.

Despite a road realignment, devotees still detour into Pokeno when travelling between Auckland and the Waikato but these days loads of people also make it a destination trip especially on a Sunday when the market is operating and shops are open too.

The Pokeno Market (run by the same folk who operate the Saturday Pukekohe Market) is always fun and offers value shopping – garden fresh vegetables, freshly baked Blackwood’s bread and fresh fish to complement your meat shopping from across the road.

What’s more, there are always delectable cooking aromas to tempt the palate – you won’t go hungry while there and, of course, shoppers will find all sorts of ‘good buys’ – books, plants, seedlings, jewellery, gifts, knitting, children’s clothes, souvenirs, toys and a range of crafts.

There’s also a musician or two to keep everyone in good spirits.

Once done at the markets take time to explore the village including Mohair Craft, which began life in Pokeno, headed out for a while but is now back in Market Road.

With winter finally making itself felt, the shop is packed with gorgeous mohair and possum/merino garments known for their warmth and style, as well as gift and souvenirs.

Remember too, Mohair Craft has shops in the BP Service Station lay-bys on the motorway at Papakura and Dairy Flat.

If you’re on the lookout for a new chook house, dog kennel, calf shelters, an extra garden shed or even a barbecue table that’ll stand up to the weather, make a beeline for Shelters & Sheds – the team there can oblige.

While in town you might want to sit, relax and enjoy a chinwag with friends so check out Pokeno Country Café with its home-style baking, lovely country views and a tranquil courtyard – it’s a popular spot for brunch and is also licensed.

Pop into the gift shop next door and you’ll also find a great selection of home décor items and gifts

This buzzy little village, bathed in morning sunshine, is  just a minute away from the motorway’s Pokeno off-ramp and is a great starting point for exploring the greater area.