Discover Kerikeri: The Jewel of Northland
Welcome to Kerikeri, a vibrant town nestled in the heart of Northland's Bay of Islands. Known as the cradle of the nation, Kerikeri offers a perfect blend of rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a thriving local culture that makes it one of New Zealand's most beloved destinations. This guide will cover everything you need to know about our amazing small town of Kerikeri in Northlalnd New Zealand.
Kerikeri History
Kerikeri holds a special place in New Zealand's history as one of the country's earliest European settlements and a site of significant cultural exchange between Māori and European settlers. The name "Kerikeri" itself comes from the Māori phrase "dig dig," referring to the cultivation of kumara (sweet potato) in the fertile soil of the area.
The European chapter of Kerikeri's history began in 1819 when Reverend Samuel Marsden established the second Church Missionary Society mission in New Zealand here, at the invitation of Hongi Hika. This marked the beginning of one of the earliest sustained interactions between Māori and Europeans in New Zealand. Learn more about this fascinating period in our Kerikeri Mission Station history blog.
Kerikeri Landmarks
Kerikeri is home to some of New Zealand's most significant historical sites and natural wonders. From the country's oldest European buildings to spectacular waterfalls, these landmarks tell the story of Kerikeri's rich heritage and natural beauty.
Stone Store & Kemp House
New Zealand's oldest stone building (Stone Store, 1836) and oldest surviving European building (Kemp House, 1822) sit side by side at the picturesque Kerikeri Basin. These Category 1 historic places offer a fascinating glimpse into New Zealand's early colonial history.
Rainbow Falls (Te Wairere)
This spectacular 27-meter waterfall is one of Kerikeri's natural treasures. Easily accessible via a short walking track, Rainbow Falls offers multiple viewing platforms and, on sunny days, displays the rainbows that give it its name.
Kerikeri Food Scene
Kerikeri's food scene is a vibrant reflection of the region's agricultural abundance and multicultural influences. From farm-to-table restaurants to bustling markets, the town offers a diverse range of culinary experiences that showcase the best of Northland's produce.
Local Eateries
Kerikeri's town center is home to a variety of excellent eateries catering to all tastes and budgets. Highlights include:
- Food at Wharepuke - Set in a subtropical garden, this restaurant offers innovative cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.
- The Pear Tree - A popular café and restaurant overlooking the Stone Store Basin, known for its relaxed atmosphere and quality food.
- Café Jerusalem - Offering Middle Eastern cuisine with a New Zealand twist, this café is a local favorite.
- Marsden Estate Restaurant - Located at the winery, this restaurant pairs excellent food with their award-winning wines.
Many of these establishments are within walking distance of Kerigold Chalets, making dining out a convenient and enjoyable experience during your stay.
Markets & Food Producers
Kerikeri is famous for its vibrant food markets and artisan producers:
- Old Packhouse Market - Open every Saturday, this market features fresh local produce, artisan foods, and crafts.
- Kerikeri Farmers' Market - Held on Sunday mornings, this market is the place to find seasonal fruits, vegetables, and gourmet products directly from the producers.
- Makana Chocolate Factory - A must-visit for chocolate lovers, offering handmade chocolates and viewing windows to watch the production process.
- Kerikeri Organic - A store specializing in organic produce and products from the region.
The self-catering facilities in our chalets allow you to make the most of these fresh, local ingredients during your stay.
Kerikeri's subtropical climate means the region produces a wide variety of fruits and vegetables year-round. Citrus fruits, avocados, and kiwifruit are particularly abundant, and many orchards offer seasonal fruit picking experiences. The town's culinary scene is also influenced by its proximity to the sea, with fresh seafood featuring prominently on many menus.
For those with dietary requirements, Kerikeri's eateries are generally accommodating, with many offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Our staff at Kerigold Chalets are happy to recommend restaurants that cater to specific dietary needs.
Kerikeri Boutique Wineries
Kerikeri's warm climate and fertile soil create ideal conditions for viticulture, resulting in a small but impressive collection of boutique wineries. These family-owned establishments produce distinctive wines that reflect the unique terroir of Northland, offering visitors a chance to taste something truly special.
Marsden Estate
One of Kerikeri's most established wineries, Marsden Estate produces a range of award-winning wines including Chardonnay, Pinotage, and Syrah. The Mediterranean-style winery features a restaurant overlooking a lake and vineyards, making it a perfect spot for a long lunch. Their cellar door is open daily for tastings, and the knowledgeable staff are happy to guide you through their wine selection.
Located just a short drive from Kerigold Chalets, Marsden Estate offers a sophisticated wine experience in a beautiful setting.
Ake Ake Vineyard
This organic, family-owned vineyard specializes in Chambourcin, Pinot Gris, and Syrah varieties. The name "Ake Ake" comes from the Māori phrase "forever and ever," reflecting the owners' commitment to sustainable viticulture practices. Their restaurant serves Mediterranean-inspired cuisine designed to complement their wines.
Ake Ake's cellar door offers a relaxed tasting experience, and their knowledgeable staff can explain how their organic approach influences the character of their wines.
Fat Pig Vineyard
One of Northland's newer wineries, Fat Pig produces small-batch wines with a focus on Italian varieties like Dolcetto and Montepulciano, which thrive in Kerikeri's climate. This boutique operation offers an intimate tasting experience, often hosted by the winemakers themselves, providing insight into their passion for creating distinctive Northland wines.
The vineyard's quirky name and approach reflect the owners' philosophy that wine should be fun and accessible rather than pretentious.
Wine Tours & Tastings
For those who prefer not to drive, several local operators offer guided wine tours of Kerikeri's vineyards. These tours typically include transportation, tastings at multiple wineries, and commentary on the region's wine-making history and techniques.
At Kerigold Chalets, we can help arrange wine tours for our guests or provide recommendations for self-guided visits. Many of our corporate guests particularly enjoy including a winery visit as part of their stay in Kerikeri.
What makes Kerikeri's wineries special is their boutique nature and personal touch. Unlike larger wine regions, visitors here often have the opportunity to meet the winemakers and hear the stories behind each vintage. The subtropical climate of Northland produces wines with distinctive characteristics that set them apart from those grown in New Zealand's more famous wine regions.
Most of Kerikeri's wineries are open year-round for tastings, though opening hours may vary seasonally. The harvest season (February to April) is a particularly interesting time to visit, as you may witness the grape-picking and early stages of wine production.
Kerikeri Accommodation
Finding the right place to stay is essential for a memorable Kerikeri experience. The town offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences, budgets, and travel styles. From luxury lodges to budget-friendly options, there's something for everyone in Kerikeri.
Stay at Kerigold Chalets - Your Perfect Kerikeri Base
Located in the heart of Kerikeri, Kerigold Chalets offers private, self-contained accommodation in a tranquil orchard setting. Our central location puts you within easy reach of all Kerikeri's attractions while providing a peaceful retreat to return to after a day of exploration.
Our chalets feature full kitchens, private patios, and all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, Kerigold Chalets provides the perfect base for your Kerikeri adventure. We also offer accessible accommodation options to ensure all guests can enjoy their stay.
Explore Our Accommodation OptionsTypes of Accommodation in Kerikeri
Kerikeri offers diverse accommodation options including hotels, B&Bs, holiday homes, and luxury lodges. Each provides a different experience of the town and its surroundings.
Choosing the Right Location
Consider staying centrally like at Kerigold Chalets for easy access to town amenities, or in the surrounding countryside for a more rural experience.
Kerikeri Blog
Discover more about Kerikeri and the Bay of Islands through our local guides, travel tips, and insider knowledge. Our blog features in-depth articles about the area's attractions, activities, and hidden gems.
Stone Store & Kemp House
Discover New Zealand's oldest stone building and its rich history in Kerikeri's historic Mission Station.
Read MoreRainbow Falls
Explore the stunning 27-meter Waianiwaniwa Falls, with swimming holes, walking tracks, and photography tips.
Read MoreKerikeri Mission Station
Step back in time at New Zealand's oldest European settlement, featuring Kemp House and the Stone Store.
Read MoreTe Ahurea: Discover Māori Culture
Immerse yourself in authentic Māori cultural experiences, traditional performances, and educational programs.
Read MoreThe Old Packhouse Market
Explore Northland's favorite Saturday market featuring 80+ vendors selling local produce, artisan crafts, and gourmet foods.
Read MoreKerikeri Farmers Market
Experience Northland's vibrant Sunday farmers market with seasonal produce, artisan foods, and delicious treats.
Read MoreKerikeri River Track
Explore this scenic riverside walk connecting the Stone Store to Rainbow Falls, with swimming holes and native wildlife.
Read MorePuketi Forest
Discover ancient kauri giants, night walks to see glowworms, and native wildlife in this magical Northland forest.
Read MoreMatauri Bay & Rainbow Warrior
Visit one of Northland's most beautiful beaches and learn about the Rainbow Warrior's environmental legacy.
Read MoreOur Kerikeri Accommodation Location
Find us at 326 Kerikeri Road, within walking distance to town and a short drive to the Stone Store, Rainbow Falls, and local wineries