About Northland
The Northland and the Bay of Islands region extends north from Auckland, to the tip of the North Island, Cape Reigna, a place sacred to the Maori peoples. Cape Reinga is the most spiritually significant area in the country for it is here that after death, all Maori spirits travel to the pohutukawa tree on the headland of Cape Reinga (Te Rerenga Wairua) and descend into the underworld (reinga) by sliding down a root to fall into the sea below. They climb out again on to Ohaua, the highest point of the Three Kings Islands to bid their last farewell before returning to the land of their ancestors. Hawaiiki-A-Nui.
Two of the biggest tourist attractions in Kerikeri are the two oldest-surviving buildings in New Zealand, Kemp House and the Stone Store (built in 1822).
Kerikeri Stone Store
A former storehouse, is the oldest stone building in New Zealand (1832). The building has been restored to its original state and is one of the most photographed buildings in the country.
Kemp House
Originally called the Mission House, is the oldest wooden structure still standing in New Zealand (1822).
Basin walks
In the Kerikeri basin, there is a network of walking tracks ranging in length from 10mins to 1.5hrs.
Rewa's Village
Built as a replica of a
typical pre-European Maori fishing village which existed when Europeans
arrived in
St James Church
1878. Set in a picturesque churchyard, this church was built in the same site as New Zealand’s first chapel.
Waitangi Treaty House and National Reserve
This is the place where the Maori and English signed the Treaty of Waitangi. Attractions include a Maori war canoe, a Marae, the beautiful National Reserve and a mangrove boardwalk.
Russell
A historical town surrounded by history. Russell was the first capital of New Zealand and one of the first European settlements.
