Kerikeri, Bay of Islands, Northland New Zealand
Bay of Islands · Northland New Zealand

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Kerikeri

New Zealand's sunniest town. Historic stone buildings, world-famous waterfalls, artisan markets, and stunning beaches, all within 30 minutes of Kerigold Chalets.

Rated by guests Tripadvisor ★★★★★ 5.0 ★★★★½ 4.7 Booking.com 9.1 Excellent Kerigold Chalets · Your Kerikeri base

Why Kerikeri?

Kerikeri is the cultural and culinary heart of Northland. Blessed with New Zealand's highest sunshine hours, it's home to the country's oldest stone buildings, jaw-dropping waterfalls, and a thriving arts and food scene. Kerigold Chalets puts you right in the middle of it all.

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 Maori-European cultural exchange. The name "Kerikeri" comes from the Maori phrase "dig dig", referring to kumara cultivation in the fertile soil here.

The European chapter began in 1819 when Reverend Samuel Marsden established the second Church Missionary Society mission here, at the invitation of Hongi Hika. This marked the beginning of one of the earliest sustained interactions between Maori and Europeans in New Zealand. Learn more at our Mission Station history page, or visit Heritage New Zealand for detailed historical information.

Stone Store & Kemp House

  • New Zealand's oldest stone building (Stone Store, 1836)
  • Oldest surviving European building (Kemp House, 1822)
  • Category 1 historic places at the Kerikeri Basin
  • A genuine window into New Zealand's colonial history
Explore Stone Store ›

Rainbow Falls (Te Wairere)

  • Spectacular 27-metre waterfall, one of Kerikeri's natural treasures
  • Short walking track through native bush from the Basin
  • Multiple viewing platforms, rainbows on sunny days
  • Track details from the Department of Conservation
Explore Rainbow Falls ›

Kerikeri Attractions

Everything below is within 30 minutes of Kerigold Chalets.

Stone Store Kerikeri, New Zealand's oldest stone building

The Stone Store

New Zealand's oldest stone building (1836) and the Kerikeri Mission Station. A genuine piece of history, 5 minutes from our door.

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Rainbow Falls Kerikeri, spectacular 27-metre waterfall

Rainbow Falls

27-metre waterfall on the Kerikeri River. Walk from town through native bush, or drive and walk 5 minutes in.

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Packhouse Market Kerikeri, local produce and crafts

Packhouse Market

Saturday mornings at the old packhouse. Local produce, artisan food, crafts, and live music. A Kerikeri institution.

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Matauri Bay, Bay of Islands, Northland New Zealand

Bay of Islands

144 islands, crystal clear water, dolphins, historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds. One of New Zealand's great destinations.

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Kerikeri Food Scene

Kerikeri's food scene is rooted in what grows here. Citrus, avocados, feijoas, and subtropical produce turn up at the markets and on restaurant menus. A good mix of cafes, farm-to-table spots, and international cooking reflects the town's multicultural community.

Local Eateries

  • Food at Wharepuke: Subtropical garden setting, innovative cuisine using local ingredients
  • The Pear Tree: Cafe and restaurant overlooking the Stone Store Basin
  • Cafe Jerusalem: Middle Eastern cuisine with a New Zealand twist, a local favourite
  • Marsden Estate Restaurant: Excellent food paired with award-winning estate wines
  • Chuckles Chicken: Popular local spot for casual dining

Many of these are within walking distance of Kerigold Chalets.

Markets & Food Producers

  • Old Packhouse Market: Every Saturday, 80+ vendors with local produce, artisan food, and crafts
  • Kerikeri Farmers Market: Sunday mornings, seasonal produce straight from the growers
  • Makana Chocolate Factory: Handmade chocolates with viewing windows into the production process
  • Kerikeri Organic: Organic produce and products from the region

Our chalets have kitchens so you can cook with fresh market finds.

Kerikeri Boutique Wineries

Kerikeri's warm climate and fertile soil create ideal conditions for viticulture. These family-owned boutique wineries produce distinctive wines that reflect the unique terroir of Northland.

Marsden Estate

  • Award-winning Chardonnay, Pinotage, and Syrah
  • Mediterranean-style setting overlooking a lake and vineyards
  • Cellar door open daily for tastings
  • Restaurant with a relaxed long-lunch atmosphere
Visit Website ›

Ake Ake Vineyard

  • Organic, family-owned. Chambourcin, Pinot Gris, and Syrah
  • Sustainable viticulture practices throughout
  • Mediterranean-inspired restaurant on-site
  • Relaxed tasting experience with knowledgeable staff
Visit Website ›

Fat Pig Vineyard

  • Small-batch wines focused on Italian varieties
  • Dolcetto and Montepulciano thrive in Kerikeri's climate
  • Intimate tastings often hosted by the winemakers themselves
  • A fun, accessible approach to Northland wine
Visit Website ›

Wine Tours & Tastings

  • Guided tours available if you prefer not to drive
  • Typically includes transport, tastings at multiple wineries, and commentary
  • Harvest season (February to April) is particularly interesting to visit
  • Ask us at check-in for current recommendations
Kerikeri town centre and Stone Store Basin

Historic Kerikeri

Stone Store & Mission →

Kerigold Chalets accommodation Kerikeri

Kerikeri Accommodation

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Historic Stone Store Kerikeri, New Zealand's oldest stone building

The Stone Store

NZ's oldest stone building →

Things to Do in Kerikeri

Kerikeri offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, here are some of the best things to do during your stay.

Outdoor Activities

Cultural Experiences

Day Trips

  • Bay of Islands: Cruises, dolphins, Hole in the Rock, historic Russell. 20 minutes from Kerigold Chalets
  • Waitangi Treaty Grounds: New Zealand's most important historic site, 30 minutes away
  • Matauri Bay: Rainbow Warrior Memorial and one of Northland's finest beaches
  • Cape Reinga: The northernmost tip of New Zealand where two oceans meet

Family Activities

  • Parrot Place: Exotic birds in a subtropical garden setting
  • Mini Golf: Themed course in central Kerikeri, great for kids
  • Kiwi North: Museum, heritage park, and kiwi house in nearby Whangarei
  • Family Beaches: Te Haumi and Opito Bay for sandcastles and swimming

What to Visit in Kerikeri

In-depth guides to Kerikeri's attractions, walking tracks, waterfalls, and hidden spots. All written from local knowledge.

Stone Store & Kemp House

New Zealand's oldest stone building and its rich history in Kerikeri's Mission Station.

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Rainbow Falls

The stunning 27-metre Waianiwaniwa Falls, swimming holes, walking tracks, and photography tips.

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Kerikeri Mission Station

Step back in time at New Zealand's oldest European settlement, featuring Kemp House and the Stone Store.

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Te Ahurea: Maori Culture

Authentic Maori cultural experiences, traditional performances, and educational programs.

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Old Packhouse Market

Northland's favourite Saturday market, 80+ vendors with local produce, artisan crafts, and gourmet food.

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Kerikeri Farmers Market

Sunday market with seasonal produce, artisan foods, and delicious treats direct from the growers.

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Kerikeri River Track

Scenic riverside walk from the Stone Store to Rainbow Falls, with swimming holes and native wildlife.

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Puketi Forest

Ancient kauri giants, night walks to see glowworms, and native wildlife in this magical Northland forest.

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Matauri Bay & Rainbow Warrior

One of Northland's most beautiful beaches and the Rainbow Warrior's environmental legacy.

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Charlie's Rock

Natural water slides and deep swimming pools over smooth volcanic rocks. A local favourite.

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Secret Waterfall Kerikeri

Hidden gem: a 12-metre plunge into a crystal-clear pool surrounded by native ferns and ancient kauri.

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Fairy Pools Kerikeri

Emerald-green pools and small cascades hidden in the bush. One of Kerikeri's more secretive spots.

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Wharepuke Falls

Charming waterfall in the Wharepuke Subtropical Garden. A secluded retreat just minutes from town.

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Te Wairere Waterfall

Stunning 15-metre waterfall cascading into a serene pool surrounded by native bush.

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The Parrot Place

Exotic birds in a subtropical garden, with interactive experiences and photo opportunities.

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Where to Stay in Kerikeri 2026

The complete guide to Kerikeri accommodation — areas, options, and how to choose the right base for your trip.

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Haruru Falls

The horseshoe-shaped falls near Waitangi — an easy day trip from Kerikeri with a scenic riverside boardwalk.

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Kerikeri Basin Track

The riverside walk connecting the Stone Store to Rainbow Falls — native bush, swimming holes, and historic scenery.

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Kororipo Pā

Historic fortified Māori village site overlooking the Kerikeri River — adjacent to the Stone Store and Mission Station.

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Rewa's Village

A full-scale recreation of a pre-European Māori village at the Kerikeri Basin — fascinating and rarely crowded.

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Where to Swim in Kerikeri

A local's guide to the best swimming spots — Charlie's Rock, Rainbow Falls, Fairy Pools, and more.

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Kerikeri Airport

Daily flights from Auckland. Everything you need to know about flying into Bay of Islands Airport (KKE).

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Where to Eat in Kerikeri

A local's guide to Kerikeri's cafés, restaurants, and food spots — from morning coffee to dinner out.

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Best Place to Stay in Kerikeri

An honest insider guide from a local host covering accommodation types, location zones, and what most visitors miss.

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Waitangi Treaty Grounds

New Zealand's most important historic site — the birthplace of the nation, 25 minutes from Kerikeri.

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Hole in the Rock

The Bay of Islands' iconic rock arch at Cape Brett — cruise options, sailing trips, and what to expect.

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Cape Reinga Day Trip

The spiritual northern tip of New Zealand — lighthouse, sacred pōhutukawa, and where two oceans meet.

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Where is Kerikeri?

Maps, GPS coordinates, and driving times from Auckland, Whangārei, and Paihia to find Kerikeri.

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Kerikeri Location Guide

Kerikeri's place in Northland and the Bay of Islands — climate, region, and what makes the location special.

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Kerikeri Road

The town's famous main road — orchards, galleries, and everything along the way to the Stone Store Basin.

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Kerikeri Events Calendar

Kerikeri and the Bay of Islands host some of Northland's best annual events. Plan your stay around one of these highlights.

Waitangi Day 2026

New Zealand's national day — celebrated at Waitangi Treaty Grounds with cultural performances, markets, and commemorations. 25 minutes from Kerikeri.

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ANZAC Day 2026

Dawn service and commemorations at the Kerikeri RSA and around the Bay of Islands. A moving Northland tradition.

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Easter 2026

Long weekend in the Bay of Islands — markets, outdoor events, and a great time to explore Kerikeri without the summer crowds.

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Matariki 2026

Māori New Year celebrations across Northland — cultural events, stargazing, and community gatherings throughout the Bay of Islands.

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Fired Up Barbecue Festival

Northland's premier BBQ competition — live music, food stalls, and serious smoker action held annually in Kerikeri.

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Bay of Islands Jazz & Blues Festival

One of New Zealand's longest-running music festivals — world-class jazz and blues across Paihia and the Bay of Islands.

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Cruz'n the Bayz 2026

Classic car cruise and show in the Bay of Islands — a spectacular display of vintage and classic vehicles along the waterfront.

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Northland Anniversary Day 2026

Northland's regional holiday — a long weekend and chance to explore the Far North at its most relaxed.

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How to Reach Kerikeri

By Car

3 hours from Auckland via State Highway 1 and 10. Scenic drive through Northland farmland and native bush.

Kerikeri Airport

Daily Air New Zealand flights from Auckland (45 min). Kerigold Chalets is 10 minutes from the airport.

InterCity Bus

Daily coach services from Auckland and other Northland towns. Bus stop in central Kerikeri.

From Town

Kerigold Chalets is 2 min / 200m walk to town. Park once, walk everywhere.

Local Kerikeri Businesses

Support local Kerikeri businesses during your stay. Here are some trusted local services that serve our community and visitors.

Gumboots Consulting

  • Geotechnical engineering for Kerikeri and wider Northland
  • Soil testing, foundation design, and site investigation
  • Residential and commercial projects welcome
  • Experienced team, tailored to Northland's unique soil conditions
Geotechnical Engineering Kerikeri ›

Mobile Auto Air Kerikeri

  • Mobile vehicle air conditioning services across the Bay of Islands
  • Repair, servicing, and regas at your location
  • No need to find a workshop, they come to you
  • Ideal for visitors who need a/c serviced during their stay
Car Air Conditioning Kerikeri ›

Seasonal Highlights

Kerikeri has something special in every season. Here’s what to look forward to throughout the year.

Summer (Dec – Feb)

  • Swim at Matauri Bay & Coopers Beach
  • Charter fishing in the Bay of Islands
  • Pick seasonal citrus from our orchard
  • Bay of Islands Music Festival
  • Early morning walks to beat the heat

Autumn (Mar – May)

  • Harvest festivals at local wineries
  • Puketi Forest walks in ideal weather
  • Snapper fishing season peak
  • Photography at Rainbow Falls
  • Packhouse Market, best autumn produce

Winter (Jun – Aug)

  • Ngawha Hot Springs visit
  • Winter menu at Food at Wharepuke
  • Haruru Falls, most impressive in winter
  • Kerikeri Art & Craft Trail
  • Midwinter Christmas events

Spring (Sep – Nov)

  • Citrus blossom in our orchard
  • Bird watching, nesting season
  • Bay of Islands Sailing Week
  • Cape Brett Track in ideal weather
  • Kerikeri Garden Safari

Ask us for seasonal tips at check-in. We’re always happy to help plan activities around current local conditions and events.

Our Kerikeri Location

Kerigold Chalets is at 326 Kerikeri Road, within 2 min / 200m walk to town and a short drive to the Stone Store, Rainbow Falls, and local wineries.

★★★★★
"The location is great. You can walk to restaurants, bakeries and town. And having the Rainbow Falls, Stone Store and Bay of Islands all within 20 minutes makes Kerigold Chalets the obvious base for exploring Northland."
Emma R. · Google Verified Guest

Stay in the Heart of Kerikeri

Kerigold Chalets, the perfect base for everything Kerikeri and the Bay of Islands has to offer.

Check Availability Call 09 407 3200