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Town in the Northland Region of New Zealand
Photo: Photo taken by Moriori and released into the public domain., Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
Kerikeri is a popular tourist destination in the famous Bay of Islands on the North Island of New Zealand. Often described as the Cradle of the Nation, it is the site of the first permanent mission station in the country, and has some of the most historic buildings in New Zealand.
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The Stone Store is a former storehouse and the oldest stone building in New Zealand: construction began in 1832. The building has been restored to its original state and is one of the most photographed buildings in the country. The wooden Mission House (Kemp House)historicplaces.org.nz/placestovisit/northland/kerikerimissionstation.aspx is the oldest building in New Zealand. It was built in 1821-22 for the Rev John Butler, New Zealand's first clergyman. It was first called the Mission House, and then Kemp House for more than 100 years, but has now reverted to its original name. Entry to the Mission House is by guided tour only – start at the Stone Store.
A picturesque wooden church on the hill just above the Stone Store, began life in 1829 as a 38 ft by 18 ft (11.6 m x 5.5 m) lath and plaster structure complete with a town clock.
A faithful replica of a kainga (fishing village) which existed when Europeans arrived in New Zealand. It has all the features of a true kainga, including a marae, chief's whare (house), kauta (cooking shelter), tall whata (bench where food was placed), weapons store, pataka (raised food store), enclosure for the tohunga (a wise person who advised the community on just about everything), rahui (a post marking tapu or out of bounds limits), whare made of bark, waka tiwai (fishing canoe), bird snare, hangi pit (ground oven), genuine historic canoes, family enclosure, rua (storage area ) for kumara (sweet potato) and a paepae haumati (the basic toilet system which was flushed twice daily by the tide).
It stands at the head of the Kerikeri Inlet which was known as Te Waha o te Riri (the inlet of war) not long after the missionaries arrived. It was once once Hongi Hika’s fortressed pa, and fishing village.
Not quite perpetual motion, but this mill provides its own fuel and is a great favourite with tourists and steam engine buffs alike. The whole mill is powered by a large steam plant which is fired by waste wood from the trees being milled.
Art gallery of NZ and internationally acclaimed artists. Focus on printmaking.
Northland's "Garden of Regional Significance", 1 km from Kerikeri. It showcases unusual plants from around the world. Guided or self-guided tours are offered over the 5 acres (2 ha) of established garden.
Indian and Thai food. $10 lunch menu with any chicken, pork or vegetarian dish. Good-size servings, decent.
"It has modern bar facilities and dining room for the more than 600 members, and welcomes visitors to the town. Lions, Rotarians, business and professional groups hold their meetings at the club. Also hosts the Kerikeri Bridge Club.
A superfriendly backpackers, relaxed atmosphere, easy walk to town. Clean rooms, great showers, Wi-Fi and internet access. Dorms and private rooms.
Cosy hostel with loads of character. Set in a lovely country estate, surrounded by an organic citrus orchard just outside of Kerikeri. Free Wi-Fi and free internet access.
Private self-contained chalets set in an avocado and citrus orchard, an 8-minute walk from the centre of Kerikeri. Pet friendly.
Holiday accommodation, two bedrooms. Self catering. Clean, quiet and very comfortable. Outdoor BBQ and luxury spa pool. Linen supplied. Well set up.
5 eco-cottages set in 5 acres of subtropical garden. Cafe, restaurant and art gallery of international artist working on site.
Stylish accommodation set within an exotic garden, 2 minutes from Kerikeri Village, walking distance to restaurants, wineries and craft shops. A unique, modern villa with waterfalls and reflective pools; king suites with luxury linens.
For a variety of superb taste sensations.
Held in the town each Sunday morning. Stalls offer a wide variety of fresh produce, baking and other foodstuffs, some at bargain prices.
By car
Kerikeri is a pleasant three-hour drive north of Auckland, via State Highway 1 and the last 12 km on State Highway 10.
By bus
InterCity coaches travel daily between Auckland and Kerikeri via Whangarei and Paihia.
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Kerikeri · Regional · KKE
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