Kerikeri, New Zealand: A Major Bay of Islands Destination

Kerikeri is the Bay of Islands city that you are going to find the most tourist friendly amenities like tourism companies, souvenir shops, tour guides and sports equipment rental stores. This is the largest township in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand area. Here you will find NZ motels, hotels, hostels, New Zealand B&B options and access to several different New Zealand adventures.

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Historical Sites

One of the greatest features of Kerikeri is that it has a lot of historical sites to visit. The first site that you may want to visit is the Mission House. This is the oldest New Zealand wooden structures and it is nearly 200 years old. Another great historical site is the St. James Church. This church was originally the home to missionaries who settled in New Zealand, and it has undergone several remodels and renovations over its nearly 200 year history.

Stone Store is the oldest stone building in NZ

Crafts

If you are interested in local artists and craftsmen, then you will want to walk down the Art and Craft Trail. This trail links about 20 art galleries, craft shops and arts and crafts outlets. Walking this trail is a great morning or afternoon activity. If you select this day trip option, then you may also want to visit other local shops, stores and souvenir stands. Just remember that you have to get everything that you buy through customs so don’t overdo it. However, if you do find that you have bought a lot of items, then you may want to ship the items home instead of trying to carrying them onto the plane.

Backpacker’s Paradise

Kerkeri is very backpacker friendly town. In fact, a portion of its population is made up of long term backpackers. Part of the appeal to backpackers of Kerikeri is that it is the home of several world class accommodations that are specifically designed and priced for backpackers. This coupled with the extraordinary natural wonders of this area, make Kerikeri a backpacker’s must visit destination.

Kauri Tree in Puketi Kauri ForestIf you want to visit a beach or play in the ocean then you will need to travel to the next community, as Kerikeri doesn’t have its own beach. However, Matauri Bay is close by and it offers a great swimmer’s beach and beautiful scenery. From this beach you can launch a boat, go swimming or simply enjoy the amazing views of Te Ngaere, Cavalli Islands and Tapuaetahi.

If you plan to visit New Zealand this year, or next, you will definitely want to add Kerikeri to your trip itinerary. This town offers great local attractions, friendly and comfortable accommodations, access to guided tours and quick access to other Bay of Islands attraction and New Zealand backpacking opportunities.

Maori Hut

This is a guest posting by Madeline who spent a month travelling through New Zealand with her daughter, who spent 6 months in the country. During her travels, Madeline spent most of her time on the South Island, although also enjoyed visiting the North Island. If you’d like to read more of their adventures, take a look at their website, www.new-zealand-vacation.info.

Category: New Zealand