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Karaka is a small rural area of Auckland, New Zealand. Formerly part of Franklin District, under the authority of the Franklin District Council it is now part of Auckland Council (under the Franklin Local Board) following the amalgamation of the Auckland regions councils.
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Map of Karaka, New Zealand
It is primarily a rural town associated with horse studs as well as dairy and sheep farming. In recent times, some of the pastoral land has been subdivided into expensive residential plots.
Economy
Traditionally the economy of Karaka was dominated by agriculture with Brink's NZ chicken originating in Karaka. However, in recent times with the move to lifestyle blocks the majority of residents commute to Auckland for employment. With the NZ Bloodstock Karaka Sales Complex located in Karaka, thoroughbred studs have become increasingly important to the local economy with Westbury Stud and Haunui Farm both located in Karaka.
Education
Three public primary schools are located in Karaka, Karaka School, Hingaia Peninsula School, and Te Hihi School, as well as one private coeducational secondary school, Strathallan. Public secondary education is provided in the nearby towns of Papakura and Pukekohe.
Attractions
Karaka is the location of the thoroughbred yearling sales at NZ Bloodstock Karaka Sales Complex. The Karaka Sports Park provides a local sports ground as well as bar and kitchen facilities; there are also a few small restaurants in the area. The Pukekohe Golf Club is located within the Karaka area bordering Pukekohe.
Kingseat
Kingseat is a small town in the westen part of Karaka, which is home to the former psychiatric Kingseat Hospital. In 2005 it was turned into Spookers, a haunted attraction.