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Tourist information - Kerikeri
Kerikeri was home ground for the fearsome Hongi Hika, a Maori chief who terrorised many tribes throughout the North Island in the early 1800s. Yet he was kind to missionaries - allowing Samuel Marsden to make Kerikeri New Zealand’s second mission station.
The township and environs of Kerikeri glory in the production of fruit and art. All along the side of the road, orchards sell their delicious oranges, kiwi fruit and avocados. And every so often you’ll see a sign that indicates the presence of a potter, painter, leadlight artist or sculptor. Follow the art and craft trail and you’ll get to know some of the artisans. Visit the wineries, lunch in one of the many outdoor cafés, indulge in delicious handmade chocolates or locally made macadamia liqueur. Kerikeri also has excellent sporting facilities, including golf, all-weather tennis and yachting. Expect a good choice of cafés and restaurants.
Historical highlights of Kerikeri include Kerikeri Mission House, the country’s oldest house built by John Butler in 1822. The Stone Store followed and by 1836 was in use as the mission store. These wonderful buildings, together with the replica Maori village Rewa’s village, on the opposite bank, are regarded as the “Cradle of the Nation” and are must for all visitors to the Bay of Islands.
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