Quick Navigation
Essential Info
- Address: 246 Kerikeri Road
- Hours: 10am - 4pm daily
- Entry: Adult $15, Child $7.50
- Guided Tours: Included in entry
- Heritage NZ Members: Free
- Website: Heritage NZ
The Kerikeri Mission Station, established in 1819, stands as New Zealand's oldest European building complex and a pivotal site in the nation's bicultural history. Located just a 10-minute walk from Kerigold Chalets, this historic precinct includes Kemp House (New Zealand's oldest surviving building) and the iconic Stone Store.
About Mission Station
The Kerikeri Mission Station was established under the protection of Ngāpuhi chief Hongi Hika, marking one of the earliest sites of sustained contact between Māori and European settlers. The complex includes historic buildings, heritage gardens, and archaeological sites that tell the story of early New Zealand settlement.
Did You Know?
Kemp House has remained largely unchanged since its construction in 1822 and still contains original furnishings and artifacts from the missionary period. It's the oldest surviving European building in New Zealand.
Visitor Information
Planning Your Visit
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning for photography, midday for guided tours
- Guided Tours: Available hourly, includes both buildings
- Accessibility: Partial wheelchair access
- Facilities: Gift shop, café, restrooms
- Parking: Free parking available on-site
Historic Buildings
- Kemp House (1822): NZ's oldest surviving building, original missionary home
- Stone Store (1832): NZ's oldest stone building, historic trading post
- Mission Gardens: Heritage plants and traditional gardens
- Archaeological Sites: Early settlement remains
Heritage Gardens
Garden Features
- Historic Plants: Species from missionary period
- Heritage Orchard: Traditional fruit trees
- Native Section: Indigenous NZ plants
- Riverside Walk: Scenic pathways along Kerikeri River
Historical Significance
Key Historical Events
- 1819: Mission Station established
- 1822: Kemp House completed
- 1832: Stone Store constructed
- 1845-46: Survived Northern Wars
- 1974: Gifted to NZ Historic Places Trust
Nearby Attractions
Make the most of your visit by exploring these nearby sites:
- Kororipo Pā (5-minute walk)
- Te Ahurea (adjacent)
- Rewa's Village (5-minute walk)
- Kerikeri Basin Track (starts here)
Getting There from Kerigold Chalets
Where to Stay
Make the most of your visit to the Mission Station by staying at Kerigold Chalets. Our location offers:
- 10-minute walk to Mission Station
- Private, self-contained chalets
- Local history knowledge
- Walking track information