Things to do Kerikeri

Last update: August 2023.
Welcome to our Kerikeri Visitor Guide, a page dedicated to exploring the wonderful activities and attractions in Kerikeri! Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, this guide will provide you with an array of exciting things to do in this beautiful New Zealand town. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, Kerikeri has something for everyone. Read on to discover the top attractions and experiences that await you in Kerikeri.

As you drive into Kerikeri town from the State Highway 10 junction, you can enjoy a true Artisan Avenue of unique and local small businesses along Kerikeri Road.

1. Kaleo Designs-Wearable NZ Art:
Original Kiwi designs by local artists printed on clothing, accessories, and gifts. NZ Art + Fashion = Local Style. Don’t miss their stand-out product- the Kiwi Classic Men’s Shirts. Kaleo is mastering the art of shirts in Kiwi style. A visit to Kaleo is like visiting an art gallery, only the artwork is wearable! Commemorate your visit to Kerikeri with an original design. There is also a wide range of comfortable and travel friendly womens and menswear, unique gift options – all using local artists’ designs. They also do screen printing on site of their custom line of tees, hoodies and more.

It is a must-visit shopping destination for local and truly unique treasures.
Kaleo will put a little Aroha in your day!
Open daily from 9:30am to 5:30pm, 459 Kerikeri Rd. Kerikeri. Ph: 027 937 4595
Lots of parking & Campervan friendly.

2. Explore the Makana Chocolate Factory:
Indulge your sweet tooth at the Makana Chocolate Factory. Enjoy a first-hand look into the chocolate-making process, sample an array of delectable treats, and browse the charming gift shop for edible souvenirs to take home.

The Makana Chocolate Factory is a must-visit for any chocolate lover in Kerikeri. Get ready to be seriously tempted by the smells and mesmerizing display of watching the chocolates being made on site. You won’t be able to resist taking some home for gifts, or yourselves…. If they make it that far before temptation to eat them sets in.

The factory is located at 504 Kerikeri Road and open daily from 9am to 5:30 pm.
Ph; 09 407 6800.

3. The Little Black Gallery:
The Little Black Gallery is a celebration of original jewellery, design, art and objects. It is a modern art space, fresh and innovative, with a friendly, relaxed environment that makes a wide variety of quality art accessible to all. Well-established and new artists contribute from around the Northland region and beyond and we encourage artists to develop new work to exhibit in the gallery.

394B Kerikeri Road. Kerikeri, Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Opening Hours.: Tuesday to Saturday 11.00am to 3.00pm. We are also available by appointment - please call 021 771 299

4. Bay Of Island Honey Shop:
Visitors of all ages will be amazed by New Zealand's largest beehive. This built-to-scale structure contains an actual working colony of honeybees. Plenty of delicious and delightful honey-related goods are for sale in the shop. Hand-made beeswax candles, honey cosmetics, and a wide range of giftware is available alongside locally produced honeys, including comb honey cut straight from the hive (and the honey tasting table provides free samples!) Natural health products include pollen, royal jelly, propolis, and bee venom. Children will love the teddy bears and Buzzy Bee range and they may even be lucky enough to spot the giant Buzzy Bee!

Located at 414 Kerikeri Road, Kerikeri, +64 9-407 7712.
Open Mon- Saturday (9:30 to 4:30. Closed Sunday.

5. The Old Packhouse Market:
If you're visiting Kerikeri on a Saturday, don't miss the Old Packhouse Market. This vibrant market is a treasure trove of local produce, arts and crafts, and delicious food stalls. Enjoy live music as you browse the unique offerings and soak up the lively atmosphere.

There are over 100 stalls at the market, selling everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to handmade jewelry and clothing. You can also find delicious food stalls selling everything from crepes and waffles to pizza and burgers. The market is held every Saturday and Sunday from 8am to 1:30pm, and it is in the historic Old Packhouse building in Kerikeri.
The café and some stalls stay open all week long and offer a great ambiance to take in some of the best local baked goods and coffee. Open 6 am to 4 pm everyday. There is also a night market on Fridays until 8 pm.
Located at 505 Kerikeri Road.

6. Kauri Workshop in Kerikeri:
Kauri is the largest tree species in New Zealand and is highly valued for its beautiful grain and durability. And this gallery/wprkshop offers of a wonderful array of crafted native wood carvings, bowls, souvenirs and more
2 minutes (2.1 km) from the city centre via Kerikeri Rd/ Twin Coast Discovery Highway. Located at 500 Kerikeri Road, Kerikeri. Open daily from 9am to 5pm.

Other things to do in Kerikeri

7. Visit the Historic Stone Store & Basin and Kerikeri Mission House:
Immerse yourself in history by exploring the Kerikeri Mission Station, New Zealand's oldest standing European building. Learn about the region's early missionary settlers, stroll through the tranquil gardens, and discover the stories behind this important site. This historic site was founded in 1819 by the Church Missionary Society and is one of the oldest European settlements in New Zealand.

The Kerikeri Mission Station is located at 246 Kerikeri Road, Kerikeri. It is open daily from 10:00am to 4:00pm (May-October) and 10:00am to 5:00pm (November-April). Admission is $20 for adults, $10 for children under 18, and free for members of Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga.

8. Discover the Rainbow Falls:
A short drive from the town center, Rainbow Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder. Take a leisurely hike through the lush forest and enjoy the serene beauty of the waterfall. Don't forget your camera, as this spot offers incredible photo opportunities.

Rainbow Falls in Kerikeri is a 27-meter single-drop waterfall located on the Kerikeri River. The falls are named for the rainbows that often appear in the mist below the falls.

The falls are in the Kerikeri Gorge Scenic Reserve and are about a 5-minute drive from Kerikeri town. There is a car park near the falls, and a short walk leads to the viewing platform. The best time to see the rainbows is in the morning, when the sun is shining, and the mist is still rising from the falls. However, rainbows can sometimes be seen at other times of the day, depending on the weather conditions.

9. Turner Centre:
The centre is a performing arts, events, and conference venue in Kerikeri, located at 43 Cobham Road. The centre has a 408-seat theatre, as well as several multi-purpose spaces that can be used for a variety of events. The Kerikeri Arts Centre hosts a variety of events, including Theatre productions, Concerts, Conferences, Workshops and Art exhibitions. It will be wise to check if there’s any event planned before your arrival.

10. Taste Local Delights at Wineries and Eateries:
Kerikeri is known for its delectable local produce, including award-winning wines and fresh seasonal fruits. Visit local wineries and vineyards for tastings and indulge in farm-to-table cuisine at the town's top-notch restaurants, which showcase the region's finest ingredients.

There are many wineries and eateries in Kerikeri where you can taste local delights. Here are a few suggestions:
● Marsden Estate Winery: This award-winning winery offers wine tastings, tours, and a restaurant with stunning views of the vines and lake. It is about 3.7 kilometers from Kerikeri town center. The drive takes about 4 minutes by car. Address: 56 Wiroa Road, Kerikeri. Open 10am to 4pm.

● Sovrano Estate and Winery: This winery offers award-winning wines and a beautiful setting. The restaurant serves modern Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. 7.3 kilometers from Kerikeri town center. The drive takes about 8 minutes by car. Address: 165 Waimate North Road, Kerikeri.

11. Relax at Local Beaches:
End your Kerikeri adventure with a visit to the nearby stunning beaches. Rejuvenate on golden sands, swim in crystal-clear waters, or simply unwind as you soak up the sun's rays.
Here are some of the best beaches in Kerikeri where you can relax:
● Matauri Bay- A stunningly scenic beach with pristine white sand and clear bright aqua bay beach- worth the 25 minute drive north of Kerikeri. The views over the bay on the drive down offer some of northland’s most iconic scenery overlooking the Cavalli Islands. The beach is ideal for swimming, a bit of wave boarding, fishing, beachcombing, and more. Public restrooms available on site. There is also a campsite where you can book in for longer stays. And be sure to check out the small hiking track up to the Rainbow Warrior Memorial.
● Opito Bay Beach: This beach is located just north of Kerikeri town center and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. There is also a boat ramp at Opito Bay, so you can launch your kayak or canoe and explore the Kerikeri River. 15 kilometers from Kerikeri town center.

● Wharau Road Beach: Wharau Road Beach is a small, secluded beach located about 5 kilometers South of Kerikeri town center. The beach is accessible via a gravel road, and there is limited parking and facilities available.

Now that you have a list of exciting things to do in Kerikeri, it's time to start planning your visit. Whether you're seeking history, nature, culture, or simply a relaxing getaway, Kerikeri has it all. Embrace the charm and beauty of this delightful town and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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