Kerikeri is more than just the fruit bowl of the north. Nestled in the heart of Northland, Kerikeri is a charming destination known for its rich history, stunning waterfalls, boutique wineries, and laid-back atmosphere. Often called the gateway to the Bay of Islands, Kerikeri offers the perfect mix of natural beauty, culture, and adventure for travellers exploring New Zealand’s far north. Whether you’re wandering through historic sites, tasting local produce, or discovering hidden swimming spots, there’s something here for every type of traveller. In this guide, I’ll share six of the top attractions in Kerikeri that you won’t want to miss during your visit.
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All prices and times were accurate when this information was written or updated; however, please verify the details on the websites before your visit.
Contents
Historical Attractions in KeriKeri
Mission House
The Mission House and Stone Store are located just outside the township. The Mission House was completed in 1822 as part of the Kerikeri Mission Station. It is also known as Kemp House after the family that lived there from mid-1832 until 1974, when Ernest Kemp presented the house to the New Zealand Historic Places Trust.
It is now kept in as original a state as possible, and guided tours are the only available option. The Historic Place Trust is preserving the building for future generations.
Stone Store
Next door to the Mission House is the Stone Store, the oldest stone building in New Zealand. Built between 1832 and 1836, it was used as a storehouse for the mission. Once again, the Kemp family took over after the mission’s closure in 1848. In 1976, the New Zealand Historic Places Trust took over from the Kemp family. Today, it features a gift shop and an upstairs museum, where tours begin.
In 2019, for NZD$15, I took an informed, guided tour of Kemp House and received entry to the museum. There are 200 years of history on display on the upper two floors of the Stone Store. There is plenty of reading material about the inhabitants, both Maori and European. It also provides stories of the trials and wars that have occurred in the area. This is a must-see for anyone interested in learning about characters and history. You also get to see the implements used at the time.
Hours
Daily 10 am – 5 pm Nov-Apr
Daily 10 am – 4 pm May-Oct
Closed Christmas Day. Closed on Anzac Day (25 April) until 1.00 pm.
The Honey House Cafe is open Tuesday – Sunday, 9 am – 3 pm.
Tour Times
November to April tours run from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and May to October tours run from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. All times are subject to availability. Enquire at the Stone Store to confirm staff availability.
Admission
Click here to find the current admission prices to the Mission House and Stone Store.
St. James Church
Another notable building in the area is St. James Church, which was built in 1878. It is still used as a church and has weekly services.
The walk to Kororipo Pa and Wairere Falls begins from the end of the car park below St. James’ Church. The walk to the Pa isn’t far, and you get excellent views across Kerikeri Inlet, Mission House and the Stone Store. You can also see how the water winds its way toward the ocean.
Nature’s Attractions in KeriKeri
Te Wairere Falls
The walk to Te Wairere Falls is in the opposite direction. It takes approximately 40 minutes to walk from the car park along a rocky track beside the Wairoa Stream. It’s a pleasant walk on a hot day under the trees, with a rewarding swim below the waterfall at the end. It’s one of the great attractions in Kerikeri, as it offers a peaceful escape from the crowds.
Back at the settlement, there is a café for refreshments before heading over the bridge to Rewa’s Village. This is a replica of a Maori fishing village, featuring gardens of native plants and abundant wildlife.
Wharepoke Falls and Rainbow Falls
Opposite Rewa’s Village is the track to two more waterfalls, Wharepoke Falls and Rainbow Falls, both on the Kerikeri River. It’s a two-hour return walk from Rainbow Falls but only 20 minutes to Wharepoke Falls. If you are into immersing yourself in nature, then this walk and these two waterfalls are must-see attractions in Kerikeri.
This easy walk ambles along the river, offering glimpses now and then.
To view Rainbow Falls, it’s only a few steps from the car park off Rainbow Falls Road onto a platform if you don’t want to walk from the Stone Store attractions. Alternatively, it’s only a 5-minute walk down the path to see Rainbow Falls in front of you and the swimming hole. There are great views of the Falls from the top and beside the river.
Conclusion
From breathtaking waterfalls and historic landmarks to local markets and scenic wineries, Kerikeri truly has something for everyone. Its relaxed atmosphere and mix of nature, culture, and adventure make it one of the highlights of exploring Northland and the wider Bay of Islands region. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, these top attractions offer a fantastic introduction to everything Kerikeri has to offer. No matter your travel style, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for this beautiful corner of New Zealand. You won’t be disappointed to visit these attractions in Kerikeri.
For more information on what else to do in the area, you can visit my blog, Visit Historic Russell. Want to take a tour? You can read my blogs, The Cream Trip, 1 Amazing Day Cruising in the Bay of Islands or 1 Amazing Tour to Cape Reinga. You may also want to learn about New Zealand’s history by reading my blog, A 1-Day Trip to Waitangi.
Where I Stayed
I stayed in the Paihia YHA, Bay of Islands Lodge, which is close to everything in Paihia.
This sustainable youth hostel features solar power, private and dorm rooms, and a large courtyard with picnic tables, where you can swap stories with fellow travellers at the end of the day.
It’s a short walk to the shops in Paihia, cruises, or the beach, and only 3.5 kilometres to Waitangi.
Facilities
- Solar Powered
- Free Wifi
- Free Onsite Car Parking
- Communal Kitchen (with food storage area), Dining and Lounge Rooms
- Recycling Stations
- Herb Garden
- Outdoor area with BBQ
- Games and Book Exchange
- Laundry Facilities
- Wheelchair Accessible
- 24-Hour Guest Access and After-hours Check-in on Request
- Hair Dryers
- Towel Hire
- Hot Water Bottles
- Travel and Activity Bookings
I have stayed here twice now and would highly recommend it. You feel as though you have a home away from home.
How To Get Here
The Bay of Islands Lodge is at 11 MacMurray Road, Paihia.
How To Book
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Links
If you’d like to read more of my blogs about Australia, you can find them at the following links: Queensland, South Australia, New South Wales, Victoria, Camping and Silo Art. Alternatively, if you’re interested in New Zealand, the United Kingdom, or Photography, you can click the links for each.
Travel Resources
- All-in-One Travel App—Klook is for all your travel needs, from tickets and attraction passes to sim cards and fast-track through customs and immigration.
- Flights & Accommodation—You can search for the cheapest flights and accommodation using AviaSales, Booking.com, or Tripadvisor.
- Car Hire—In Australia, you can use Budget Car Rentals Australia or Avis Car Rentals Australia or in New Zealand, Budget Car Rentals New Zealand or Avis Car Rentals New Zealand.
- Camper & RV Rentals—Want a quieter pace exploring Australia and New Zealand in your own accommodation? Jucy Rentals and Star RV Rentals will give you an unforgettable travelling experience.
- Travel Insurance is the number one thing to pack when you’re travelling. Cover-More Australia, Cover-More New Zealand, EKTA, Travel Insurance Master, and Insubuy provide insurance coverage during your travels.
- Attractions—buy before you leave home with these great sites: Big Bus Tour, GetYourGuide, GoCity, and Viator.
- SIM cards—Try Airalo, the world’s first eSIM store, which solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving travellers access to eSIMs (digital SIM cards).
- Power Stations—Bluetti Australia Power Stations are your choices for sustainable, eco-friendly power on the road or at home.
- For more tips, try my Travel Links and Resources page.
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I think i remember visiting these locations a few years ago but not sure if I saw all the places on your blog really enjoying taking this journey with you the photos are just beautiful
Thanks Kathy. You would have seen Kemp House and the Stone Store for sure but probably not the waterfalls.
The waterfalls looks amazing 🙂
I would love to visit Rainbow falls, and go for a little swim!
It is beautiful, Ann, and very popular, especially for swimming.
What an absolutely stunning location – and your photos are just beautiful!
Thanks very much, Daisy. It is a stunning place to visit.
I have very fond memories of my visits to New Zealand and a day trip to Kerikeri was certainly an enjoyable day.
I’m glad that you enjoyed it, Marilyn.
This was my home for almost 2 years! Such a wonderful place.
I remember your time in New Zealand well, Heather. I loved reading your insight as an adopted traveller during the pandemic.