Explore the Bay of Islands
Kerikeri Mission Station
Kerikeri Mission Station is one of the first places in New Zealand where Maori invited settlers to live among them. The settlers were under the protection of the local chiefs and together they built a trading post consisting of the Stone Store (1832) and Kemp House (1821).
The daily guided tours will give you great insight to the daily lives of the people who lived here. The heritage gardens surrounding Kemo house make for a lovely morning stroll and the Honey House Cafe makes for a delicious morning tea or lunch break. Walk over the hill and in the footsteps of Nga Puhi chief Hongi Hika to the Kororipa Pa, overlooking the entire basin or over the footbridge to the other side of the river to the start of the Rainbow Falls walking track. For more information visit; https://www.heritage.org.nz/places/places-to-visit/northland-region/kerikeri-mission-station
Rewa's Village
Rewa’s Village is a full scale replica of a pre – European Māori fishing village.
Meander around the village, imagining a time before European settlement.
Walk through our native bush and experience the serenity of native bird sounds. Listen to the tranquil waters of “Te Awa o Ngā Rangatira” river (the river of chiefs) and enjoy the picturesque surroundings of the Kerikeri Basin.
For more information visit;
Kawiti Caves
Located right in the heart of the Waiomio Valley, the Waiomio Glowworm Caves are home to thousands of luminous glow worms, breath taking rock formations and lush green rainforest. It is an incredible sight to see and the underground milky ways, stalagmites and stalactites and hidden chambers on the guided tours. Only 5 minutes drive from Kawakawa and 30 minutes from Kerikeri, a great trip for families. For more information visit;
Waitangi Mountain Bike Park
For those who enjoy an active holiday, the Waitangi Mountain Bike Park is a definite must do. With lots of tracks and the option to hire bikes this is the best way to explore the magnificent Waitangi Forest. For more information visit;
The Old Packhouse Market
The Old Packhouse Market is off the main road in Kerikeri, on the right-hand side as you drive into the township. This market is rated one of the best in New Zealand and is the largest one in Northland.
It's easy to see why it is so popular; with a huge variety of local produce, artisan products, remedies, art, crafts, plants, clothing and entertainment there is something for everyone. Why not enjoy a coffee or an icecream in the sun, while listening to a local band and the kids are happily jumping on the bouncy castles? Buy some freshly baked bread, locally brewed beer or some new bright jewelry for yourself. It feels good to be part of the community and support local.
The biggest market day is on Saturday, from 8am till 1.30pm. Sunday market is from 9am till 1.30pm and the hall with cafe and bakery is open every weekday morning. For more info visit;
Makana Chocolate Factory
Located opposite the Packhouse Market on Kerikeri road you will find the Makana Chocolate Factory. It is a real favourite of all chocaholics and we can definitely recommend it to anyone with a sweet tooth.
Best known for their Macadamia Butter Toffee Crunch, it is well worth a factory tour to see how they make these mouthwatering chocolates. (and trial some delicious tasters) Pop in for a coffee next door at the Makana Cafe and you'll be off to a good start!
For more information visit; https://www.makana.co.nz/
Rainbow Falls & River Track
The Kerikeri river track is a beautiful walk through the native bush alongside the river leading to the spectacular Rainbow Falls. Starting at the Kerikeri basin the track will lead you past the Wharepuke falls which is a great swimming hole, past an historic power house and to the Rainbow Falls where you can also swim to explore cave behind the waterfall on a sunny day.
The track from the basin is about 5km long so give yourself about 3 hours if you're planning to do the walk there and back. You can also start the walk from the Kerikeri river down the bottom of Avalon Resort, ask reception staff for directions. For more information visit;
B.O.I. Golf Club
Avalon Resort is located opposite and overlooking the Bay of Islands Golf Club in Kerikeri. If you are a keen golfer, we are sure that the views from the resort will entice you to book a round on this picturesque course. For more information or to book visit;
Plough and Feather
If you are looking for a superb dining experience than make sure to give Plough and Feather in the Kerikeri Basin a visit. Run by award winning chef Colin Ashton, renowned for the fresh, high quality ingredients and extraordinary recipes, their meals are sure to delight.
The setting is stunning in the basin, with lots of indoor, outdoor and lawn seating, making it the perfect place for couples, families and a cold afternoon beer in the sun. For more info visit;
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
For all tourists visiting New Zealand, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds is a national treasure to explore. Providing historical insight to the first peace agreements between Maori and the British government, this is the best place to learn about NZ's past and culture.
There is lots to see and discover on the Treaty Grounds, including live performances, art, private tours, special events, the museum, cafe and gardens. For more information visit;
Cape Reinga & 90 Mile Beach
From Kerikeri, it is a nice day trip to visit Ninety Mile Beach, Cape Reinga Lighthouse and the giant sand dunes.
There are a number of guided trips you can do by coach, 4WD or a scenic flight/tour option. You can also self-drive right to the top but a guided tour provides a more informative and easy option if you are unfamiliar with the area.
Ask us about these various options to explore the far north get to the top of New Zealand.
