Established by pioneering missionaries, Kerikeri is a picturesque town in the heart of the Bay of Islands region. It’s home to some of New Zealand’s oldest buildings at its historic missions, as well as a bird breeding centre filled with colourful parrots.
Things to do in Kerikeri
Visit the atmospheric Kerikeri Mission Station, which was established in 1810 and was one of the first places where Māori and Europeans lived together. Join a guided tour to discover the fascinating history and explore the award-winning heritage garden, with hands-on Children’s Chores Tours held during summer.
Want to see the oldest building in New Zealand? Visit Kemp House, which was built in 1821 by missionary carpenters and Māori sawyers. It stands behind the historic Stone Store, a Georgian-style museum where goods that would have been traded during the early-19th century are displayed.
Travel south to see New Zealand’s second-oldest building at the Te Waimate Mission, where the region’s missionary, farming and architectural history is displayed. Hear stories of early encounters between Māori and Europeans as you wander through the period-furnished rooms and discover the legacy of the Treaty of Waitangi, which was signed here.
Get up close to birds from all over the world at the Parrot Place, a bird breeding centre within subtropical gardens. Meet Elmo the dancing Macaw while strolling through the aviary, then let the kids run loose in the large playground while enjoying a coffee at the Sweet Tweets kiosk.
Getting around Kerikeri
Bay of Islands Airport is a five-minute drive from Kerikeri and has daily flights from Auckland, which is around three hours away by car. The downtown area is easily explored on foot, but having our own vehicle is best for accessing the surrounding sights.