National Treasures

We are walking distance to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds – considered a MUST DO if you are in the Bay of Islands! Discover the history of New Zealand. Visit the nation’s birthplace Te Pitowhenua, it is New Zealand’s premier cultural and historical site. Waitangi Treaty Grounds welcomes you on a journey of discovery through New Zealand’s most important historic site.

There are many other significant sites and wonderful buildings to explore.  The Kerikeri Mission and Stone Store is one of New Zealand’s premier historic sites that preserves the stories of tumultuous times when Māori met missionaries and life was changed forever. 

Established in 1819, the Kerikeri Mission Station is one of the first places in New Zealand where Māori invited visitors to live among them. Built under the protection of local chiefs who were keen to harness the trade and technology of Europe, Kerikeri Mission Station grew amidst a backdrop of tribal warfare and ever-increasing visits from foreign ships.

Today, the Mission Station, situated along a pretty riverside just five minutes from central Kerikeri, is a captivating place to visit.

 Over in Russell, we have, Pompallier Mission.  Built in 1842 it originally housed a printing works where Church texts were translated from Latin to Te Reo Māori, then printed and bound.  This French-style print works and tannery combine momentous Māori and Pakeha history, glorious gardens and hands-on fun.