Experience nature and culture in New Zealand! 4 must-visit tourist attractions in Kerikeri

Kerikeri, located inland in New Zealand’s stunning Bay of Islands, is a charming town nourished by the Kerikeri River. Blessed with a warm climate and abundant water resources, this fertile land is famous for producing fresh fruits such as kiwifruits, oranges, and lemons—making it a top destination for agritourism enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Kerikeri also holds deep historical significance as the first location where Christian missionaries from Britain arrived in New Zealand. Visitors can explore well-preserved colonial-era buildings, including the Oldest Building in New Zealand, which stands as a popular and meaningful cultural attraction.

Additionally, Kerikeri is known as a thriving town of the arts. It is home to a vibrant community of artists, with local studios and craft shops open to tourists. The local visitor center offers booklets featuring detailed information about these workshops—giving travelers a chance to enjoy artistic and cultural experiences unique to Kerikeri, unlike any other tourist spots in the country.

1. Rainbow Falls

Just an hour’s walk from the garden of the historic Stone Store along a well-maintained trail will lead you to Rainbow Falls, a breathtaking 27-meter waterfall gracefully nestled in the heart of nature. Though accessible by car in just a few minutes, walking the path is highly recommended to immerse yourself in the area’s natural beauty.
The trail runs along the river and is surrounded by lush New Zealand wilderness. It's also wheelchair-accessible and lined with native kauri trees, making it a perfect hiking spot. Rainbow Falls is a popular attraction among visitors to Kerikeri. One of the highlights is the rainbow that often appears in the morning on sunny days—truly a magical sight.

Once you reach the falls, don’t stop there—venture a bit farther and you’ll encounter a massive banyan tree. Even for those short on time, the falls are only about a five-minute walk from the nearest parking lot, making it easy to visit for families with kids or elderly travelers.

2. Kemp House

Known also as the Mission House, Kemp House is located at the end of Kerikeri Road, by the Kerikeri River, as you head straight toward the sea from the town center.
Constructed between 1821 and 1822 in early 19th-century British Regency style, this wooden structure holds the title of New Zealand’s oldest surviving building. It was named after the Kemp family, who lived there as Christian missionaries.

The surrounding gardens are equally historic, representing the oldest known European-style garden in New Zealand. Registered as a heritage site, Kemp House stands as a living testimony to the early interactions between Māori communities and European settlers.

Both the Kemp House and nearby heritage sites can be explored with a single admission ticket.

3: Stone Store

The Stone Store is the oldest stone building in New Zealand. Constructed between 1832 and 1836 as a storehouse for the Church Missionary Society, it was designed by Wesleyan (Methodist) missionary John Hobbs and built using convict stonemasons from New South Wales (Australia).

Originally, the purpose of the building was to store wheat harvested from the Te Waimate farm. However, due to poor wheat yields, the building was mainly used for the kauri gum trade and also housed a flour mill. Inside, the restored structure showcases furnishings and other artifacts that recreate the atmosphere of early settler life.

Today, the ground floor serves as a gift shop selling sweets, ceramics, and more, while the upper floor functions as a museum. The surrounding gardens are also a highlight, representing the oldest example of a European-style garden introduced in New Zealand.

4. Rewa’s Village

Rewa’s Village is located in the forest across the Kerikeri River, directly opposite the famous Kemp House and Stone Store. Upon arrival, visitors can purchase a ticket at the entrance and receive a site map to guide their exploration. A short introductory video about Rewa’s Village is also available for a deeper understanding.

This reconstructed Maori fishing village brings to life what life was like for the Maori people during the 1820s–1830s, nearly 200 years ago. The village features a traditional marae (meeting house), the chief’s residence, food storage huts, weaponry shelters, and other key structures, all recreated in their historical form. Walking through Rewa’s Village gives visitors a powerful glimpse into Maori lifestyle, culture, and community organization.

Don’t miss the Discoverers’ Garden within the Rewa’s Village grounds, which showcases native Northland plants – a perfect addition for nature lovers visiting Kerikeri.

◎ Summary

Aside from its rich natural and cultural attractions like Rewa’s Village, Kerikeri is brimming with other must-see spots. Visit local artists’ studios, chocolate factories, expansive fruit farms, churches, museums, and enjoy scenic views everywhere you go. Small wineries, boutiques, galleries, and restaurants are increasingly popular, and weekend farmers’ markets offer locally grown produce and handmade goods.

You’ll also find fresh seasonal fruits sold at roadside orchards, and you’re welcome to drop by artists’ ateliers that display open signs to visitors.
Kerikeri is a town where you can experience the history, flavors, and arts of New Zealand. Don’t miss out on everything it has to offer!

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Experience nature and culture in New Zealand! 4 must-visit tourist attractions in Kerikeri