Things to Do in Kerikeri & the Bay of Islands

Discover the Best of Northland

Welcome to Kerikeri and the beautiful Bay of Islands! Whether you enjoy exploring New Zealand’s history, discovering stunning natural scenery, relaxing on beautiful beaches or enjoying local food and wine, there is plenty to see and do during your stay.

Kerikeri is a wonderful base for exploring Northland, with historic attractions, spectacular waterfalls, boutique shops, local markets and some of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal scenery all within easy driving distance.

We’ve put together some of our favorite attractions and experiences to help you make the most of your visit.

Explore Kerikeri

Kerikeri Historic Basin – Stone Store & Kemp House

Visit one of New Zealand’s most historically significant locations. The beautiful Kerikeri Basin is home to the iconic Stone Store, New Zealand’s oldest surviving stone building, and Kemp House, the country’s oldest surviving European building.

Enjoy the riverside setting, explore the historic buildings, wander through the gardens and discover the fascinating history of early Māori and European settlement.

Rainbow falls

Rainbow Falls

One of Kerikeri’s most spectacular natural attractions, Rainbow Falls is a magnificent 27-metre waterfall surrounded by native bush.

There are excellent viewing platforms where you can admire the falls and take photographs. For those who enjoy walking, the Kerikeri River Track connects the falls with the historic basin.

Old Packhouse Market

The Old Packhouse Market

A visit to Kerikeri wouldn’t be complete without exploring the popular Old Packhouse Market.

Held on weekends, the market is a great place to discover locally made crafts, fresh produce, artisan products, clothing, gifts and delicious food. Enjoy a coffee, browse the stalls and experience the friendly atmosphere.

Marsden Winery

Local Wineries, Cafés & Artisan Shops

Kerikeri is well known for its local produce, boutique wineries and excellent cafés.

Explore the local vineyards, enjoy a relaxed lunch, sample regional wines or discover handmade chocolates and locally produced treats.

Don’t miss the artisan shops and galleries around Kerikeri.

The Parrot Place

The Parrot Place

A great attraction for families and bird lovers, The Parrot Place is home to a colourful collection of parrots and other birds.

Enjoy the tropical garden setting and get up close to some beautiful and fascinating birds.

NZ Kauri

Puketi Forest & Kauri Walks

Experience some of Northland’s magnificent native forest at Puketi Forest.

The Manginangina Kauri Walk is an excellent way to see impressive mature kauri trees from an elevated boardwalk. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience New Zealand’s native bush and birdlife.

Explore the Bay of Islands

Waitangi Treaty Grounds – Discover New Zealand’s History

A visit to the Bay of Islands wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, one of New Zealand’s most important historic destinations.

Stand on the very spot where New Zealand’s founding document, Te Tiriti o Waitangi / the Treaty of Waitangi, was signed in 1840. Discover the history behind this significant event and learn more about the people and stories that helped shape our country.

Your admission includes two consecutive days of access to New Zealand’s most important historic site.

Enjoy:

An informative guided tour of the Treaty Grounds (approximately 50 minutes).
A Māori cultural experience (approximately 30 minutes).
Access to all heritage buildings.
The opportunity to see the world’s largest ceremonial waka.
Entry to Te Kōngahu Museum of Waitangi.
Entry to Te Rau Aroha Museum of the Price of Citizenship.

Opening hours: Open daily from 9am to 5pm, except Christmas Day and Waitangi Day.

Make an Evening of It – Hāngī & Concert

For a truly memorable cultural experience, enjoy an evening of traditional Māori food, music and entertainment at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

The Hāngī & Concert experience combines delicious traditional cuisine with an engaging cultural performance at this historically significant location.

Your evening includes:

A relaxed welcome at Whare Waka Café.
An opportunity to watch the hāngī chef unveil the traditional meal.
A traditional warrior challenge during a bush walk.
An energetic Māori cultural performance featuring music and dance.
A delicious buffet dinner featuring meats, vegetables, bread, salad and steamed pudding for dessert.
Complimentary pick-up and drop-off from selected locations.

Special admission offer: Book the Hāngī & Concert Combo and receive a 50% discount on admission to the Treaty Grounds.

Whether you choose a daytime visit or an evening cultural experience, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds is an attraction well worth including in your Bay of Islands itinerary.

Plan Your Visit & Book Tickets
Book your admission and experiences directly through our special Waitangi booking link below.

Book Your Waitangi Experience

Paihia – The Gateway to the Bay of Islands

Enjoy a visit to the picturesque seaside town of Paihia.

Stroll along the waterfront, browse the shops, enjoy a meal at one of the cafés or restaurants, or simply relax beside the water.

Paihia is also the departure point for many of the Bay of Islands’ popular boat cruises and island experiences.

Hole in the Rock & Bay of Islands Cruises One of the region's must-do experiences is a boat cruise around the beautiful Bay of Islands. Explore the islands, enjoy spectacular coastal scenery and look out for dolphins and other marine wildlife. Many cruises include a visit to the famous Hole in the Rock at Motukōkako, weather and sea conditions permitting.

Hole in the Rock & Bay of Islands Cruises

One of the region’s must-do experiences is a boat cruise around the beautiful Bay of Islands.

Explore the islands, enjoy spectacular coastal scenery and look out for dolphins and other marine wildlife.

Many cruises include a visit to the famous Hole in the Rock at Motukōkako, weather and sea conditions permitting.

Russell – A Historic Seaside Village

Take the passenger ferry from Paihia across the water to historic Russell.

Once known as Kororāreka, Russell has a fascinating history and is one of New Zealand’s oldest European settlements.

Enjoy the historic buildings, waterfront restaurants, boutique shops and beautiful coastal views. For panoramic scenery, take a walk up to Flagstaff Hill.

Haruru Falls

Just a short drive from Waitangi, Haruru Falls is a beautiful horseshoe-shaped waterfall surrounded by native vegetation.

You can view the falls from the roadside viewing area or enjoy the scenic walking track connecting Waitangi and Haruru Falls.

Beautiful Beaches & Coastal Scenery

The Bay of Islands and surrounding coastline are home to some spectacular beaches.

Some popular destinations include:

Matauri Bay: Famous for its beautiful white sand, clear water and views towards the Cavalli Islands.
Te Ngaere Bay: A beautiful coastal location with stunning scenery.
Paihia Beach: Conveniently located close to the township, cafés and restaurants.

Pack your swimming gear, take a picnic and enjoy some of Northland’s beautiful coastline.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR STAY

Whether you’re planning a relaxing break, a family holiday or an adventure exploring Northland, Kerikeri and the Bay of Islands offer something for everyone.

From historic attractions and scenic walks to boat cruises, beautiful beaches, local markets and great food, you’ll find plenty of reasons to extend your stay.