Papakura got off to a dream start against Manurewa but had to withstand a fightback before winning 20-17 in Counties-Manukau rugby.
Papakura's 20-5 lead at the break, with tries to Peter Carpenter, Barney Devery and Dion Kingi, gave the impression it was going to be a one-sided match.
But Manurewa rallied latein the second half, with tries to Selesi Moimoi and Opeta Lafotasi, only to come up three points short.
Papakura have now won five in a row to go clear at the top of the table.
In what is believed to be a competition record, flanker Simon McKearney scored six tries in Pukekohe's 50-6 win over Patumahoe.
A return to form for Pukekohe have them only three points adrift of the top four.
Bombay and Ardmore-Marist clashed in the most physical match of the season.
Ardmore-Marist had slightly more control and Dwayne Grace kicked the goals that mattered in their 17-10 win.
No 8 Pompei Lambert was Bombay's best in a team who now have six bonus points from six matches.
Waiuku had to battle hard for their 16-9 win over Onewhero. Waiuku prop Dave Stewart was a tower of strength up front, while centre Andrew Thompson provided touches of class out wide.
Hooker Winiata Taupo was the standout performer for Onewhero.
