Kerikeri

The picture-perfect township of Kerikeri, in the Bay of Islands, lies at the northern end of the Bay and is set amidst orchards and market gardens. Planted in the 1920's, the region's horticultural industry produces vegetables and flowers, along with citrus, tamarillo and kiwifruit crops. Vineyards also flourish in the fertile grounds surrounding Kerikeri.

Like nearby Russell, Kerikeri has an historical flavour. According to Maori, the remaining evidence of pa, or fortified settlements, is the result of conflict between the Ngati-Miru and Ngapuhi tribes. For a glimpse of early Maori life, visit Rewa Village, a reconstruction of an unfortified Maori village, or kainga, complete with meeting house, kitchen and storerooms. In peaceful times, pre-European Maori would live in kainga, while during times of war or conflict, they lived in fortified villages, or pa, usually situated strategically in hilltop locations.

Europeans first arrived in the area in 1819, when pioneering missionary, the Reverend Samuel Marsden, settled in the area to preach and pass on religious teachings. The mission house, dating from 1821, remains today as New Zealand's oldest surviving wooden building. The Stone Store is the country's oldest stone building, having been built between 1832 and 1835. Today it operates as a general store and museum.

As well as being an historical and horticultural centre, Kerikeri boasts a thriving arts and crafts scene, encompassing visual, performing and creative arts. To sample creative delights of the area, follow the Kerikeri Art and Craft Trail, which takes you to a number of outlets and attractions in and around Kerikeri.

For more information on Kerikeri, visit Destination Northland or the Te Ara Encyclopedia.