The Stone Store is a 1832 historical landmark, known as the oldest store in the nation. It now serves as a gift shop offering antique-chic goods. The store is located in Far North, New Zealand and is surrounded by beautiful parks maintained with easy access. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the history of the place and its surroundings, including the hill where a Maori tribe settled and welcomed missionaries.
OMG.... What an amazing collection of wonderful items including vintage pistol and Brass Compass... Loved it
Surajnarayan Maitra — Google review
A piece of history for NZ. The store has many interesting one of a kind decorations/gifts. Enjoyed browsing.
Odalys Sage — Google review
Always a fabulous place to visit. Some additional children's books and toys along with all of the other marvelous bits amd pieces. The walk bridge and surrounding parks are beautifully maintained with easy access.
Gill Gibbs — Google review
I didn't go inside the stone store, but was a friendly area to walk a dog on a lead with bins around if required. Cafes on site and there's a big grass park area on a hill across the road with a great view of the stone store from above and plenty of space to set up a little picnic :-) Nice area to visit if you're in Kerikeri
John Pilbrow — Google review
Nice place to wander around in Kerikeri with some historic relevance and there are some goodies available to shop as well inside the store. There is a small park, garden and lake to explore here.
Jom C — Google review
One of my favourite places here in New Zealand. So far I would rank this second to Milford Sound. It is sooo beautiful and the ambience is so peaceful. Definitely a must visit, and when you do, avail the guided tour! It helps the store and you get a history lesson of the place and the oldest house in New Zealand and the hill where a Maori tribe used to settle who welcomed the missionaries. Lovely history. Awesome heritage. Best spot in Far North.
Philip Credo — Google review
Very tasty cabinet food and top notch service, hospitality with a smile.
Lovely Bee themed facilities, very clean.
The garden and view of the river outside is beautiful
Catherine Kay Escol — Google review
Beautiful place to visit - the shop is awesome - ladies are friendly - I remember when we used to drive past the Stone Store - it is all changed - the Gardens are Gorgeous- the Honey House Cafe was lovely - such a nice relaxing place to have a cuppa and snack
Gayle Sills — Google review
A historical building that has turned into a gift shop. I liked the interior design and the way they had used old stuff as decorations.
Mahdi AK — Google review
In this picture-perfect setting 😍 is one of New Zealand’s 🇳🇿 premier historic sites. It preserves the stories of tumultuous times, when Māori met missionaries ⛪️ and lives were changed forever.
The Kerikeri Mission Station is the site of two of the country’s oldest surviving buildings: Te Tango Whenua (The Stone Store) and Kemp House 😲
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 Māori Chiefs who were keen to harness the trade and technology of Europe, the Kerikeri Mission Station grew amidst tribal warfare and ever-increasing visits from foreign ships 🚢
Cultivated over the past 200 years and New Zealand’s oldest European garden 🏡🌹🌻 the Mission’s award-winning heritage garden and orchards are a wonderful place for a picnic or walk 🚶♂️
Unfortunately because there was over an hour's wait ✋️ for the tour of Kemp House, I didn't go 😢 But the Stone Store and gardens were quite interesting 😊
Joanie Badenhorst-Awasthi — Google review
Still how I remember it but the stream and gardens seem prettier. Very lovely outlook
Lynlee Cook — Google review
Wonderful old house at the shore of the river. Inside a very nice „general store“
Roland Zeller — Google review
An important NZ historic building with an interesting past. Well worth a visit. Short tours also available (charges apply)
Bob L — Google review
Its a nice little gift shop with a cafe behind it but wasn't really for me. The surrounding area is quite nice to wonder around though.
Discover a tropical oasis at The Parrot Place, where you can stroll through lush gardens and marvel at the vibrant plumage of exotic parrots from around the globe. This family-friendly attraction offers an interactive experience, allowing visitors to feed and hold a variety of friendly parrots while learning about these fascinating birds from knowledgeable staff. The well-maintained park provides shaded areas for the birds and features a play area for children, making it an ideal destination for families.
Very fun experience with quite friendly and interactive birds. Staff are just as friendly as the birds and they don’t even bite. Like a mini zoo just specialising in all kinds of exotic parrots.
Timofey Pavlov — Google review
This place is amazing, friendly staff and interaction with the birds is allowed if you are willing. The kids thoroughly enjoyed the visit and had fun feeding them. We will be back next time we are up this end.
Jonathan Taylor — Google review
What a wonderful experience. The staff are so lovely and the birds are amazing and well trained. Would 100% recommend
Shirleen — Google review
Been to this beauty twice now and I will be making more visits in the future. It’s reasonably priced adults $14 and our 1yo is free! Great variety of birds and the gardens are beautiful. Staff are all friendly it’s definitely one that entertains the kids
Alicia Littlejohn — Google review
We had a great family trip to The Parrot Place this morning, we were impressed from the start..my 3yo said ‘mummy the gardens are so beautiful’. The shop/entrance was well stocked and we were greeted by two friendly staff members, the park itself was very clean and well maintained, we enjoyed holding and feeding a variety of friendly and colourful parrots. The birds looked well looked after and all had shaded areas for this heat. Having the picnic area/play park was great too! Highly recommend a visit!
Louisa Oakey — Google review
Amazing parrots and loved every minute of it for my bday.
Lovely interaction with the birds. Great shopping for birds too. Staff were so lovely . Thanks would recommend
Jan Mc Leod — Google review
Took the grand kids here and spent a nice couple of hours. You can hold some of the birds on your hand and feed others. Not a big facility but friendly and good.
Hazel Ingram — Google review
The Parrot Place is a very nice place to visit. You are able to feed and hold birds on your shoulders and hands with some birds even landing on you. Staff are very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Great way for children and adults to interact with birds if they want to but the birds also have space away. All of the birds looked healthy and the cages looked clean. My favourite bird was definitely Saluvesta (if that's how you spell it) a very cute, colourful and friendly bird. As well as Pompom who snuggled up on my shoulder.
Holly Mayne — Google review
Nice little parrot place with a good variety of parrots. We could feed the birds and enter some cages. Parrots could come and sit on our shoulders. Has a small playground and cafe that was closed. Highly recommend to visit for families with little ones.
Mahdi AK — Google review
We found that many of the birds were not hungry as we went later in the afternoon, so would suggest that you attend earlier if you want them to be interested in the food offered. The shop space is extremely cramped and hard to manage if trying to social distance. The kids enjoyed having the birds sit on them and interact, but I am not sure that I would say it is value for money. Beautiful birds, outside spaces well maintained.
Amber Fitton — Google review
It was good for kids to experience holding a bird and see different kinds of parrot. I actually enjoyed one bird that went on my shoulder wanting to feed me with the seeds 🤣. They also sell a lot of birds stuff in the store.
Jeddah B — Google review
The kids absolutely loved this place. We could hold some birds and feed them. The staff were really friendly and knowledgeable and you can tell they are really passionate about their birds. Awesome treasure for nature lovers.
James Speirs — Google review
We bought our Indian Ringneck Archie in November 2021. We got updates about his growth and health all the time when we put our deposit in. We were sent photos to see how he was going and he always was happy and doing well. He is now nearly 18 months and is a happy healthy little guy. He is very chatty and loves to talk. When he arrived off the plane he was in wonderful condition and not even stressed at all. You could tell he had been handled and raised very well. The Parrot Place takes great pride and love when raising their parrots. They also have amazing education on how to raise your bird etc.
Charlotte Key — Google review
Went on a Sunday drive winging it and found this gem of a place absolutely loved it. Get the bird food too for an awesome experience! Great for the family and kids even those people who aren't normally a bird fan I would relate and would rate this place absolutely amazing
Jasmine Ritchie — Google review
We enjoyed this park more than we expected. Absolutely beautiful birds. Lots of fun feeding the birds. It you are visiting the Stone Store don’t go past the Parrot Place! Was well worth the visit.
Paul Wallace — Google review
Amazing place! We had so much fun. There are so many birds and you can feed most of them! Lots of signs telling you who bites so you don't get caught. Staff were passionate and friendly. All the birds seemed happy and well cared for.
Rebecca Hambrook — Google review
Lovely place to see many rescued parrots and other birds. Most of them were so friendly and flew up to us for food and pats. All the birds looked to be well cared for and the cages and grounds were very clean considering how many birds are there. Really enjoyed our time in this little paradise!
Angela Chen — Google review
10/10 was so good. It was interactive, we got to walk around and have the birds sit out our shoulders and feed them. Most birds were shy but that's expected with it being kid friendly. I could sit there for hours with the birds. Thus will be a staple for us and our future trips up north!!!!
Highly recommend this!! And for $14 per adult, why is this place not more recommended????
Although the birds did try and eat my ear holes and mouth...
charlotte white (ulovecharlotte) — Google review
The Parrot Place 🦜 is a Bird Display and Breeding Centre set in the heart of Kerikeri in the Bay of Islands.
They have approximately 300 birds 😲 from all over the world and run a successful 👍 breeding and rearing programme. They also offer specialist avian and pet supplies 📦 and a range of parrots, hand reared and aviary bred for sale 😀
The lady there is a wonderful and knowledgeable host, who took me on a Parrot 🦜 Safari.
They have a glorious subtropical garden 🌲🌴🌺🌸🌼 that you can enjoy, and be entertained by the antics and colourful plumage of a big variety of exotic parrots from around the world 🌎 There is also a picnic 🧺 and play area.
One cheeky bugger kept hopping on my shoulder to play with my 👂 dangling earring
Joanie Badenhorst-Awasthi — Google review
Good for kids, will suggest not to buy more than one bowl of food , because parrot’s don’t really eat much. Because it just not you going to feed them, parrots already eating from morning 😅
Otherwise it’s Great place for kids.
Kishor Karde — Google review
This place is Awesome... It's James on, you can be a pirate, because they put a parrot on your shoulder. It is really inclusive for all the family. It is money well spent and if you're a family, I would highly recommend you visit.
Will Will — Google review
I loved the parrot place. Birds were happy, friendly, and liked the seeds you can purchase to feed them. I really enjoyed being able to hold some of the bird, particularly the rainbow lorikeet, who was very cute. They all seemed really well looked after, living in enclosures with enough space for themselves and their bird friends. The staff were also great, really knowledgeable about the birds and helpful with handling the parrots. It was worth the entry fee, I throughly enjoyed. Highly recommend.
The Kerikeri River Track is a leisurely 2-hour trail that runs alongside the river, offering refreshing shade from regenerating kauri and totara forest. Starting near the stone store, hikers can explore the remains of the historic Kerikeri hydro-electric station along the way. The track also leads to two beautiful waterfalls, including an opportunity to take a dip at the base of Wharepuke Falls. It's an ideal choice for a relaxing day out in nature.
4
Aroha Island Holiday Accommodation, Campground & Eco Centre
The Aroha Island Charitable Trust Campground is a hidden gem located within the Kerikeri inlet, offering peaceful nature walks and the opportunity to spot local kiwi. The island boasts a route that takes approximately thirty minutes to traverse, showcasing its mangroves and native wildlife. This campground is situated on the waterfront and allows for shellfish collection from nearby rocks with appropriate footwear.
We spent 3 nights camping on Aroha Island and I highly recommend it for anyone traversing around the North Island! Not only is the property beautifully maintained but the kitchen, bathroom, and shower facilities are immaculately clean and well kept. The property managers Mady & Tony are absolutely wonderful and on site to assist with any needs. AND YOU MIGHT SEE THE RESIDENT KIWIS!!! My partner and I managed to sight kiwi birds 2/3 nights we were there - definitely rent the red lights at the info center as they are much brighter and it will be very challenging to see the kiwis without them - they move quickly! This is an experience I will be telling people about for a long time to come.
Jill Cameron — Google review
Stayed one night at the campground. Kitchen facilities superb (fridges, freezer, gas hob, some pots and pans for general use - clean after you use it of course!). WiFi available near the reception. Toilets were clean (we didn't use the showers). Hosts were kind and we even managed to spot a kiwi at night! 🐣 Would recommend 👍
Joie Lou — Google review
We stayed here for 3 nights and loved the accommodation. Very hospitable welcome and the beds were amazing. I went out to see the wild kiwi's twice and both evenings I had 2 encounters. It is way more special to see them out and about in this lovely environment than in a kiwi house.
Pim de Laat — Google review
Great stop off just outside of KeriKeri. They have a local kiwi pair and a lovely walking track around the entire area.
Neat camp site right on the waterfront. Shellfish can be collected from the rocks (shoes required to access).
Would highly recommend the stop over, currently managed by a lovely couple who live on site.
A little alcove of heaven.
Daven Illenberger — Google review
Had an amazing time here! The managers are simply heartwarmingly nice and have all the good tips for seeing kiwis. Thanks to them I was able to spot them one night during my stay.
The facilities are simple but clean. Everything you need for your stay. Would love to come back ♥️
Aileen Reh — Google review
Spent the night here for my partners birthday and had the most special time here. The couple who run the camping site are extremely helpful and even suggested we go out at night along the small trail they have to see some kiwi and we did! Would 100% recommend and when we’re back up north we’ll definitely be coming back.
izzy — Google review
A pretty special place that is easily accessed! Even if the weather was terrible around us we were wonderfully sheltered and really enjoyed our stay. The kiwi didn't play ball on this trip, but we will be back for sure!
Very nice, clean, spacious facilities. Our powered site was more than generous in size (fitting a 16ft caravan & 7m motorhome sideby side with plenty of space to dine in between).
Close proximity to Kerikeri, yet just far enough to get away and feel like you are somehwere special.
Even during a storm we loved it!
Geoff Stephens — Google review
A beautiful forest setting with a small beach. We heard Kiwi birds at night and other campers reported on sightings. The unsealed road to the camp is very narrow and in case of opposing traffic one may need to back up some 100 meters.
Uwe Hoett — Google review
Experience great views and great people. You can search the area for the elusive brown kiwi at night or just enjoy the kiwi and morepork calling to each other. If you're up north, there is no reason to stay here, just bring the mossy spray :)
CJ Clapham — Google review
We are so thankful that we got to stay here. It was actually closed the night we phoned to book but the owners were kind enough to let us stay anyway!
Went on the kiwi spotting walk at night and we heard two kiwis in the bushes right beside us. The owners give great tips on where and how to find them.
Beautiful scenery and great facilities, highly recommend.
The Bay of Islands Farmers' Market is a must-visit event for those looking to experience the local flavors and crafts of Paihia and Kerikeri. Held every Thursday afternoon in Paihia and Sunday morning in Kerikeri, this market offers a diverse range of locally grown produce, artisan goods, beverages, and more.
Always good for a look around. Lots to see. Food for everyones different tastes.
Will Will — Google review
Plenty of vegetables bread cheese oil honey eggs
Wilma Smith — Google review
Lovely friendly people. Got lovely fresh produce (Willowbrook farms great produce)
linda mcguinness — Google review
Lots of local produce and great coffee and artisan bread just across the road.
Darren Breeze — Google review
Very small and just few seller but good selection of fruits and vegetables. A icecream and coffee shop
marias travel — Google review
Great produce and bread yummm
Melissa Wendt — Google review
Awesome. Could have shoped all day long
Lyndsay Atchison — Google review
Very small with only a few stalls. We were looking for something for lunch and were disappointed there wasn’t much of a selection. If you’re after fruit, veg, bread or coffee, there’s one seller for each of your needs!
Four stars because if you like supporting local you can do that here, vendors were all friendly, and ample parking in town; just go with limited expectations.
Lisa Schl8r — Google review
Almost boutique!
This busy little market has some of the best of... most of... The coffee I drank while perusing the site was outstanding. Seasonal produce reflect traditional Farmers' Market culture.
Friendly, pleasant and interesting stall holders. Chatty and helpful.
Beach walks are great any time of year. Limited vehicle parking in beach zone or near the Farmers' Market. The Market's proximity to iconic tourist amenities and booking services is good. Access to public toilets is appreciated.
Myke Wing — Google review
Well this market is really small and has not really many options, but when you go up the road there is a beautiful Handmade-Market. Don't miss this one - it's awesome!
Vici Rose — Google review
Buy direct from growers and bakers really good for the local economy. Great produce and experience.
Bruce Larsen — Google review
A sad experience with very few stalls.
I would love to see far more of them.
Tony Bridge — Google review
Very disappointed ☹️☹️☹️ this market used to be fabulous but now only a handful of stalls. Very little atmosphere and as one local said to me she couldn't even do all her vege shopping there as many products not available.... wonder if they could incorporate with The Pack House and have their products in one area. Was really looking forward to a visit to this market as had many good memories.
A pleasant wine tasting. An interesting range of wines with different palates to the norm which is to be expected in a small family winery. If you want to try something different I would say this is the place.
They had a few reds and a few whites and a rose. 3 ports, a couple of grappas and unique walnut liqueur. Found a couple of things I liked.
Friendly conversation with the owner and good discussion about wine rounded off the tasting nicely. Thanks.
Giles Sharman — Google review
Absolute gem of a small batch winery. Not just for the wines, although they are fantastic, including a gewürtraminer and sauvignon amongst the best I've tasted in nz, but for the oddities, of which the walnut liqueur is an especial standout. However the crown of this place isn't its booze; like any top notch winery, it's the people and the stories and the chat. Worth a drive if you're anywhere near, perhaps worth it even if you're not. Exceptional all round
Matt George — Google review
I absolutely loved all the wines I tried (can’t say the same about the big commercial wineries in Napa where I’m from). Would also highly recommend the aged grappa. The owner was really friendly and informative. An underrated place!!
Sidharth Dhawan — Google review
Lovely wine with great owners
Tony McNally — Google review
Great wines, friendly and informative tasting with the owner, and the best chardonnay I've tried so far. Would definitely recommend a stop here.
F J — Google review
Excellent wines, great experience.
zeus siqueira — Google review
Such an absolute treat! Mike was a start and the drinks were a credit to him and his wife (even though she wasn’t there). Would recommend 100%
Kate Robson — Google review
Such friendly and knowledgable staff. The grappa is well worth trying, but it's the Chardonnay that remains my all time favourite after many visits
Rainbow Falls (Waianiwaniwa) is a picturesque tourist attraction featuring a cascading waterfall that leads into a swimming hole, bordered by lush vegetation. The area can be easily accessed with viewing platforms available for visitors. A river walk path takes you down to the Stone Store, which is mostly easy to navigate with some hills and well-maintained tracks. Along the path, one can see mini waterfalls as well as another big one that's pictured but unnamed.
Easily accessible with viewing platforms. We also did the river walk down to the stone store which was mostly easy (some hills) on a well maintained track.
The main waterfall was on good form thanks to the heavy rain the day before we visited. The path was protected by trees. We also saw mini waterfalls along the route and another big one (pictured but can't remember the name).
Our 6yr old walked the whole way, even though we took an ill advised long-cut trying to head into town.... It is a mission to town from the path, so just stay on it and have lunch at the lovely cafe by the stone store 😉
Alannah Elliott — Google review
We had time for a quick "hike" and Rainbow Falls was just right.. it's a fun walk down an easy path. The falls are huge on some days and slight on others, they were fairly large on the day we were there!
Lisa & Wes Williams — Google review
Beautiful place, well worth a visit; has kept clean and well preserved. You can check the waterfall just few minute after the car park, and go down the footpath to the river. The forest was amazing and very quiet.
Mahdi AK — Google review
Very beautiful waterfall and managed to capture the rainbow on camera! Amazing!
Its a very short walk in to see it, only about 5 mins, especially if you're not doing the full river track and limited for time. Do not miss it if you are in the Kerikeri area!
HL — Google review
Beautiful Falls and bush walks along the river. With the river very full after lots of rain the falls were very impressive. A short drive from Paihia. Lots of parking and good clean toilets.
An interesting contraption to walk over and wash your shoes before going through the bush ensuring no seeds and bugs are taken through.
A very nice place for a picnic.
Hazel Ingram — Google review
This is a stunning classic vertical freefall, accessible from three separate viewpoints all with a few minutes stroll from the parking lot. All of the viewpoints are excellent.
We came during a period of heavy rains, and the flow was breathtakingly powerful. The water was clearly runoff, not the lovely clear water I see in most of the photos, but it was an awesome and thrilling site nonetheless.
Marsha Russell — Google review
Easy access waterfall with sufficient space to park and walks. Easy 5 min walks to viewpoint and more extensive walks beyond. The waterfall looked magical when we went, after a rainy day the sun shining through. 100% worth a visit and to make it more rewarding, I would suggest walking from town to make the most of it.
Che Kumar — Google review
Very easy access. Short board walk to see the falls suitable for wheel/push chairs. The fall was huge after a few days of rain. Worth a visit.
Hazel Tan — Google review
Must visit this place! Wow so beautiful Falls. What I like was no need to walk too much to see this! There was a toilet at the parking. Plenty of parking too.
J BK — Google review
This place is beautiful. Such a picturesque place to enjoy a swim and some diving off of rocks. Easy entry into the lagoon at the base of the waterfall for swimming. It's a slight hike down to the pond from the parking area, but not too strenuous. If that's not for you, there are a couple of viewing platforms that offer amazing vista's of the falls.
daniel neeland — Google review
Beautifull and I am sure on a cloudless day the photos would be amazing. 3 vantage points to see the falls. Easy walk. Public toilets at entrance.
Vaughan Fleischer — Google review
Perfectly fine water fall. Well managed place with proper viewing and walking track. Worth visiting it. Pure natural beauty with water fall sound and freshness of air that can be felt because of dense trees. Very soothing place
Yasir Rauf — Google review
Has good size parking area with toilet facilities.
Walk starts off at the upper lookouts. There are 3. 1st is from platform seeing from side angle then go upstream more to the 2nd platform which is next to the top of waterfall then the 3rd platform is a little more upstream where the weir is.
Once you've been to those 3 lookouts, you head back to the first platform sign to start the walk down to the base of the waterfall.
Leon Khan — Google review
Beautiful waterfall, you can go right onto the falls. You can also take the trail down the bottom and go swimming or climb behind the falls if you're daring enough. It's a popular camping spot for RV travellers with the open car park and camping site next to it
Jarrod White (Jarsky) — Google review
Beautiful waterfall, very short walk along an easy path from the carpark. When we were there it was busy. People were swimming, walking behind the waterfalls and also above them. A bit of a contrast from Wharepuke falls and Charlies Rock where we were the only ones there!
John E — Google review
I have tried both Rainbow falls and Charlie rocks and this place takes by far, it is much more accessible and more convenient for swimming! If you swim to the side you can climb and go behind the waterfall.
Meir Cohen — Google review
The Māori name for the Rainbow Falls 🌈 is Waianiwaniwa, and it is a 27m single vertical, almost square drop waterfall located on the Kerikeri River 😊
It is called Rainbow Falls 🌈 because of the beautiful rainbows the sun 🌞 cast on the water 💧 Even when you are far from the waterfall 😲
I was quite in awe of the falls and wooded area 😍
Unlike most New Zealand 🇳🇿 waterfalls which are created by the erosion of soft rock, the Rainbow Falls are sited on a hard basalt layer of rock beside softer mudstone 🪨
There is a big carpark 🚗 with toilet blocks 🚻 There are 3 upper viewing platforms, about 5 minute walks in between. There is one lower, which leads to a very popular swimming hole 🏊♀️ surrounded by gorgeous native bird 🐦 and bush 🌴🌳 The lower track is a bit more intense, with steep inclines at places. The braver people can even walk to the back/behind the waterfall.
The walking tracks 🚶♂️🚶♀️ are all cement, gravel, or wood with no steps (except getting into the water), so suitable for people of all abilities 👩🦽 You can walk along the river bank for 4.5km, all the way to the Kerikeri Basin 👍
Joanie Badenhorst-Awasthi — Google review
Free to access, just 2 mins walk from the car park you will reach the platform from the top to see this beautiful waterfall, another 2 mins walk to get in nearer to the waterfall.
if you wanna go down, there is a pathway which is quite easy too. staircase not too slippery, after going down there could be the best spot to shoot a beautiful photo together with the falls.
Sheng Yi Lim — Google review
Beautiful spot to enjoy this gorgeous river walk. Stunning bush and lots of people enjoy a dip on a hot summer's day. NO DOGS as it's also a kiwi area. Some onlead walk further up the stream
Rangihoua Heritage Park is a must-visit site in the Bay of Islands. It offers a glimpse into New Zealand's first European settlement and features fascinating displays along the track. The park provides stunning views of the bay and surrounding area, making it an ideal spot to catch a sunset. Visitors can take a 1.5 km walk down to the beach and Marsden Cross, with opportunities for swimming in the refreshing waters.
Many people visit here on Christmas Day as this is the site of the first church service on that day. Good parking and track to access site on beach below. Toilets situated at top of track. Fantastic views of the Bay of Islands. As you walk down many information boards to read explaining life at those times. Nice little beach, suitable for swimming. Grass area to sit on. Return hike could be challenging for some, the track is steep.
Dianne Miller — Google review
A stunning reserve to visit and take a stroll through to Marsden Cross. The walking track is well maintained and quite easy going, with only a few hills to begin with. The reserve also has a really peaceful section of bush, which adds lovely variety to the walk and some wildlife to spot!
I would highly recommend this to anyone up north :)
Troy Smith — Google review
Good historical walk with information boards placed at regular intervals. Enough information without overload. Good track down to the beach to the site of Marsden Cross.
Mike Hall — Google review
The weather was sunny when I visited. Best to wear good walking shoes and a sense of adventure. The story boards are well worth the read as you walk along the track.
The new shelter is a nice lookout too. At the bottom by the beach I could imagine the community going about their day all those years ago.
I wandered along the beach and enjoyed the solitude and could appreciate how brave those early people were to live in such isolation.
I'd like to have been able to visit the pa, but wasn't sure where it was or if it was open.
Well worth the visit, be prepared to explore.
Sandra Davies — Google review
Great to visit this site again. Easy to find but note it is gravel road for the last part of the drive. Good parking. Tidy well maintained long drop toilets but no drinking water up top. Little shade on the path which is steep in places (take walking poles if needed as they’ll help on the climb back up 😄). Little shade down at the beach, but good swimming there. Stunning views of the bay and surrounding area. Fascinating information on the displays along the track. But some signage needs a bit of TLC and it would be super helpful to have some bench seats as rest stops for the walk back up the hill. No toilets or drinking water down at the beach. And maybe in years to come there could be an info Pavillon down at the bottom which provides seating as shade as well 🙏🏼 Definitely a must see piece of NZ history for all NZers
Helen Brereton — Google review
It is a fantastic spot to finish the day at the beach or fish from the rocks and see Kiwis on your way up to the carpark. It is easier If you carry a red light
Mauricio castellano — Google review
This place should be promoted more!!! The best historical site we have been to in NZ. Save your $60 and skip Waitangi.... you can do this for free and get a real experience of historical NZ. The plaques along the walk are stories of people and events based on fact. There are no buildings left, but clever placement of pictures of how it used to look like, line up with the present day landscape. The views of the Bay of Islands are stunning and you can see where the fresh water meets the sea in the bay and realise why this was a good place for the pa site and the first Europeans to settle. The Marsden Cross marks where the first church service was held in NZ.
D&C Lambert — Google review
A beautiful walk from the car park to the beach. A bit of a strain walking uphill however it is doable. Big ups to DoC for the track and facilities. Enjoy the grass, the Cross and the beautiful beach. Take a picnic and swimming togs...enjoy
Stan Pilbrow — Google review
Great spot to understand early European settlement in New Zealand. 1.5 km walk down to the beach and Marsden Cross, which is OK except you have to walk back up! No facilities at beach, long drop toilets at the entrance at the top. Take togs for a refreshing swim. Highly recommended, the views on the drive to get there are amazing. Be aware, gravel road for last 10kms or so.
Jaqui Smith — Google review
Well worth a trip. Large car park and compost loos at the top. Interesting walk down to a deserted cove. All the signs on the way are really informative about the history of the first mission in New Zealand. Its quite a hot walk, not too much cover but there are a few covered seats on the way. Great view too.
A rebuilt old Maori village to show how the Maori lived in the past. There is also a small museum with old Maori objects. The whole museum is runed by friendly people.
Foto Arjan — Google review
Well worth a visit if you're near Kerikeri. Lots of info on local flora and Māori uses for them. Great context on Kororipo Pā that the Stone House/Kemp House side of the river doesn't mention. The location is atop a hill with a steep gravel footpath and the outside forest areas has undulating grounds, not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. $10 for entry (self-guided tour) but I wish I had done a more expensive guided one to make the place come alive more. This place does not do paywave, so bring a card or cash. Very nice quiet picturesque park just below it and free large carpark with toilet facilities. Ideal for a picnic! Really pleasant!
Isabelle Plummer — Google review
A tour guide makes a big difference whom is from there and has on hand korero about that area and tupuna, people ☺️ Nga mihi Kipa.
louisa kingi — Google review
Rich in history on a great cultural sight and showing the Maori medicine plants that some of us still use today. Rewa's Village is the start of something great but needs work and bit of polish to really attract visitors.
Crown Tours — Google review
Honestly nothing to look at for the price. They didn't even bother to hide nails for the buildings to look authentic. Museum at the entrance is the best part of exhibition. They also have a garden of native plants, but it's all signs no flowers in the winter. Probably better other seasons. They have some renovations in progress, but I'm not really keen to check once again. If you want to see a couple of buildings you can do the same for free in Hamilton gardens, and the building there look more authentic. If however you just arrived to NZ and just learning about Maori culture, then maybe this place is still worth visiting when you travel up north.
Ilia Nedoluzhko — Google review
Me and my wife were in our honeymoon when we came across this place. We were interested to what it was. We were greeted by a nice lady, how ever she stood there and didn't let us process if we wanted to pay to go in (which we didn't) @$20 per person. We felt like we were pressured to go in. When we did go in she then proceeded to tell us it wasn't finished so we felt even more ripped off. The place is pretty cool but far out we felt ripped off! We weren't even there for 10 mins, and we had gone through everything. This was not worth $20 each and we were very disappointed that we were pressured into spending our hard earned money....
Brendan Thompson — Google review
$10 dollars for an afternoon wandering around a maori village was well worth it. I felt like I could've been only moments to late to see the original occupants vacating the village to the safety of the Pa across the river
Duncan Thomas — Google review
The staff is very friendly. The village is smaller than I expected.
James C — Google review
Didnt go there as the reviews put me off. They may need to either, up their game or drop the prices. Also was told not to leave my Vehicle in the Car Park as more than likely to be vandalised?
Also noticed no responses from owners Re: Postings ever.
Dubiouse is best description.
Kororipo Heritage Park is definitely worth exploring due to its visually stunning scenery. The park boasts a few charming cafes and has excellent accessibility for individuals using wheelchairs. It is an ideal location to appreciate the historical significance of the heritage building, making it a top choice for sightseeing.
Good place to see
Kim OanhHoang — Google review
Worth a visit. Very picturesque. A couple of cafes in park. Wheel chair accessible.
The Kororipo Pā Historic Walk offers a fascinating journey through history, allowing visitors to explore the rich cultural heritage of the area. This trail takes you on a captivating expedition, where one can delve into the past and gain insight into the traditions and customs of ancient times. The walk encompasses significant archaeological sites, showcasing remnants from bygone eras. It provides an opportunity to witness artifacts that embody the historical spirit of the region.
The carpark was difficult to find, but eventually located. The dog park had unleashed dogs enjoying themselves and their owners were friendly. The dog had a great time despite being on a leash for the first visit. The forest hike adventure with the kids was enjoyable, although it was slippery near the stream due to recent rain. Roland's Wood is a beautiful place for walking in a lovely wooded area, although there are some issues with weeds that need attention.
Really nice place to take the dog. Tracks are not gravel or graded but not too rugged. Good footwear would be recommend as it's a bit up and down with tree roots crossing the tracks. Beautiful plantings and trees to provide plenty of shade on hot days.
Tim Finlay — Google review
Really lovely place to go for a wander with the dog! A mixture of native and exotic plants (spring bulbs are coming out now) and quite hilly and a bit muddy at times but great for the dog to roam while you're having a leisurely wander!
Elise Doyer — Google review
Beautiful area, Magnolia and groups of Clivia and blue bells in flower,so lovely. A wonderful job done with the plantings of colour amongst the old trees. Really great for dog walking. Would be a great walking area any season
Christine — Google review
Fantastic place to take your dog for a bit of offlead exploring. Gets busy from time to time so I recommend having a leash with you in case you need to maneuver to a quieter spot in the woods before taking them off. Our dogs thoroughly enjoyed it every visit.
Jason Van Wijk — Google review
Been here a couple of times nice for a quick stroll. Something different. Parking is small but each time we've been we got a park. People come and go probably spending between 15mins - 30 mins on average. Lots of native trees and blue bells this time of year.
John Pilbrow — Google review
Beautiful spot to spend time walking through the a beautiful wood.
There is definitely a weed problem that needs work. But still such a nice spot.
The Butels — Google review
Fantastic opportunity to view the Bluebells in flower, early October. The track around the wood has got a bit wet and unkept so recommend staying in the upper area.
Dianne Miller — Google review
Great place for dog off lead, meandering paths through a beautiful wood providing shade from the heat of the Far North. I only give it four stars as the majority of the wood is sloping and people who don't like hills (aka my husband!) may not appreciate this. There are many park benches to sit on throughout the wood to enjoy the peaceful outlook.
Fiona Buchet — Google review
It is what it says on the box. It is a wooded area. It's on a hill. Good exercise for you and your dog. Off-leash area, good for a walk on a hill but do not mistake this for a good place to throw a ball for your dog. It's a wooded, hilly walk. It's a little dark being a wooded area too. Probably only good when the weather is fine.
Tim Arcus — Google review
Drove past it three times before I realized where it was the carpark was in the shadow and car was parked out front like it was a driveway but we got there in the end. My dog had an absolute blast he was on a lead as it was our first time and I didn't know the place but there were the loveliest dog owners and dogs there off their leads living their best furry life was so great to see. I did get a little lost following my pup but my kids loved the forest hike like adventure with him, we did visit a day after wet weather so was a little slippery down bottom by the stream but made it all the more adventurous for all .
esh zade — Google review
If you like to walk your dog where it's dedicated to dogs by Roland, it's a great place with lots of tracks to wander through.
Mark Griffiths — Google review
Really beautiful spot to take your dog for a run around. Very peaceful and quiet. Lots of benches to sit and take in the stunning surroundings. However, I under estimated my fitness walking back up the track. The incline got me good haha
Sovrano Estate in Kerikeri, New Zealand, offers a delightful Italian dining experience to brighten even the dullest, wettest winter's day. The establishment exudes warmth and hospitality, creating a great atmosphere for patrons. Perhaps some traditional Italian music could enhance the ambiance further. The tables are beautifully set with high-quality double tablecloths, adding an elegant touch. Despite being busy, the staff manage to serve food promptly and extend a warm welcome to guests.
The food was so delicious and the service was outstanding. I've never been a big white wine drinker but totally converted after their incredible wine. Thank you so much for everything as we had the perfect start to our holiday.
Mel Jenkins — Google review
The family went to Sovrano Estate and Winery for Mother’s Day..
It was fantastic.
Warm welcome when we arrived, service wonderful and the food was delicious..
Very professional staff who didn’t try to rush you but actually asked when you wanted it served.. it’s so good to have another good restaurant in the area..
Fantastic day !!
David Rogan — Google review
Get a tasting flight and add on the liqueur’s. The wine is absolutely delicious bought a bottle to go.
Food: Octopus and scallops were excellent. Scallops cooked to perfection.
Mains delicious, the eye fillet and pork loin were both cooked perfectly; very juicy and tender. Really enjoyed the vegetables that came with the meals. Huge portions. Just couldn’t fit desert in so I’ll have to return.
Deb Ross — Google review
On a trip to Kerikeri I researched some local wineries on Google and found Ake Ake were open long hours and also had quite an interesting range of products. Upon arrival Maz greeted us in. She's an amazing host and kept us quite engaged during the course of our wine tasting. Her knowledge of the products are exceptional and she has all the skills to make your wine tasting experience a truly memorable one. If you love wine, you wouldn't want to miss this experience.
Arinndam Saha — Google review
Amazing food, hospitality, and location. We went twice during our visit to the area. Look forward to going again when we return!
Dan McNeill — Google review
Our motel owner highly recommended this place/ winery to us and boy was he correct 👍
From the minute we arrived, what a welcome… we didn’t want a heavy meal and l’d heard about the seafood pizza so I was curious to try it as on the menu mentioned, octopus, prawns, mussels, cockles, etc it was an extravaganza of seafood and flavour…. The wife who’s Italian went for the 4 cheese pizza she said fantastic just like in Naples…
We had 2 of there wines with meal and dessert Affogato…
All for $104…
If we weren’t on holidays and living in London we’d be regulars
David Oden — Google review
Absolutely divine food and tasty wines. Highly recommend for anyone in region. Excuse the half eaten starter of kahawai pate it was delicious!
Kelly-Ann McHugh — Google review
What a pleasure dining out tonight at Sovrano Estate. We couldn’t have chosen a nicer place to enjoy a delicious meal out to celebrate our Wedding Anniversary. The food was amazing and the service impressed us. We will definitely be back again.
Rod Jordan — Google review
A lovely Italian dining experience to brighten this drab, wet windy winter's day in Kerikeri.
Sovrano Estate was warm and welcoming.
Great atmosphere, maybe could play some Italian dining music 🎶...
Beautiful table setting with quality double table cloths!
The staff were very welcoming and we received our food at a great time...considering how busy they were.
The food was well presented, especially the Pizzas, a nice touch with your own circular pizza cutter... Tasted scrumptious
The Tiramisu for dessert was beautifully presented with shards of dark chocolate and tasted divine. 👌🏻
We enjoyed out time here and came away with some nice liquors and wines 🍇
Well done Andreas and team for bringing a taste of Italy to Northland... 🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹
Julie Anne Stevens — Google review
Delicious food! Lovely Italian owners. We had 4 of the antipasti and they were all bellissimo!
The wine was somewhat lacking (we tried 8) however they had lovely international bottles on the menu. We had a lovely Italian unoaked Chardonnay with our lunch.
Our main recommendation to the lovely owners would be to add a few touches to the outdoor area to improve the aesthetics and ambiance. Repainting of the deck to match the new area to the old and some terracotta pots with red flowers perhaps to match the red umbrellas. Maybe some tress in pots too and flowers in old half oak barrels at the ends of the vines.
A beautiful spot of a long lunch 👌🏼
Lauren Filer — Google review
Absolutely the best pasta I've had, both the seafood pasta and the eye fillet mushroom pasta were amazing, huge portions, scallops were beautiful, pannacotta was great and well presented, good service and great location.
Elliot Olsen — Google review
First time here today. Beautifully set out restaurant. My husband and I celebrated 49 years of marriage.
The food and service was wonderful with fresh seafood and delicious accompaniments. Our meal was delicious as was the Wine, whilst my hubby preferred a beer.
Unfortunately there weren't many in the restaurant today. Forget Marsden, this is the new restaurant to go to, you won’t be disappointed.
Shannon Tindal — Google review
Really nice reds, especially Rosso Organic. And by far the best tasting pizza I’ve tried in NZ!
Ivan Reutskiy — Google review
Great presentation & food was really nice but did not enjoy the experience. Lack of service is what let it down for us, when your paying good money.
Charlie Bliss — Google review
5* Italian cuisine, worth to come back and try more👌