Walks, vineyards, markets and easy day trips.
Kerikeri sits in the centre of the Bay of Islands and is one of the easiest places from which to explore the Far North. Within a short drive you can discover waterfalls, historic sites, vineyards, coastal towns and forest walks.
Many guests enjoy taking their time – perhaps starting the morning with a walk, visiting a vineyard for lunch and finishing the day with a scenic drive or sunset by the water.
Here are a few favourite places we often recommend when visitors ask what to see while staying in Kerikeri.
Waterfalls and Forest Walks Near Kerikeri
One of the easiest and most rewarding walks in the area leads to Rainbow Falls, just a few minutes from town. The waterfall drops into a deep pool surrounded by native bush, and several viewing platforms provide different perspectives of the falls.
From here, walkers can follow parts of the Kerikeri River Track, which winds through bush alongside the river and eventually connects with the historic Kerikeri Basin.
Another beautiful short walk is the Manginangina Kauri Walk, located inland from Kerikeri. A simple boardwalk passes through a grove of ancient kauri trees, some hundreds of years old. Standing beneath these towering trunks is a remarkable experience and offers a glimpse of Northland’s original forests.
Historic Places That Shaped New Zealand
The Bay of Islands holds an important place in New Zealand’s early history.
The Waitangi Treaty Grounds, a short drive from Kerikeri, mark the site where the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed in 1840. Today the grounds include museums, historic buildings, carved meeting houses and the world’s largest ceremonial waka, all set above the harbour with beautiful views across the bay.
Closer to Kerikeri, the Kerikeri Basin is another fascinating historic area. The Stone Store – New Zealand’s oldest surviving stone building – stands beside Kemp House, the country’s oldest European house. Nearby exhibitions at Te Ahurea provide further insight into the cultural history of the area.
Vineyards and Relaxed Northland Lunches
Northland’s warm climate has supported vineyards for many years, and several are located within easy reach of Kerikeri.
Marsden Estate is a popular stop for visitors, combining wine tastings with a restaurant overlooking the vines and surrounding countryside. Sovrano Estate offers a smaller, relaxed vineyard setting, while Omata Estate, on the road between Opua and Russell, is a scenic place to pause when exploring the eastern side of the Bay of Islands.
A vineyard lunch can easily become one of the highlights of a visit to the region.
Discovering Kerikeri’s Markets
Kerikeri has long been known for its lively markets and strong connection to local produce.
The Old Packhouse Market takes place over both Saturday and Sunday and attracts growers, food producers and artisans from across the region. Saturdays tend to focus more on fresh produce, while Sundays have a relaxed atmosphere with food stalls, crafts and handmade products.
The Bay of Islands Farmers Market, held on Sunday mornings in central Kerikeri, is another wonderful place to discover seasonal fruit, vegetables and locally made foods.
Together these markets offer a genuine taste of Northland.
Seeing the Bay from the Water
With 144 islands scattered across sheltered waters, the Bay of Islands is best appreciated from the sea.
Visitors can choose from relaxed sightseeing cruises, sailing trips, private charters or even hiring a boat for the day. Cruising through the islands offers a completely different perspective of the coastline, hidden bays and marine life that make the region so special.
Golf in the Far North
The Far North is also well known for its excellent golf courses.
The Bay of Islands Golf Club in Kerikeri provides a friendly and scenic course surrounded by native bush, while the Waitangi Golf Club enjoys sweeping views across the harbour.
Further north, Kauri Cliffs near Matauri Bay is internationally recognised as one of New Zealand’s finest golf courses, perched dramatically above the Pacific Ocean. Other memorable courses include Carrington on the Karikari Peninsula and the picturesque Whangaroa Golf Club.
Easy Day Trips from Kerikeri
Kerikeri is perfectly placed for exploring the wider region.
Driving to Opua and taking the short car ferry across the harbour brings you to the historic seaside town of Russell, once New Zealand’s first capital.
Around forty minutes north lies Mangonui, a charming harbour settlement with historic buildings and waterfront cafés. Nearby Coopers Beach offers a long stretch of golden sand.
To the west, the landscapes change dramatically at Hokianga Harbour and the Waipoua Forest, home to Tāne Mahuta – the largest known kauri tree in New Zealand.
A Few Local Favourites
Visitors exploring Kerikeri often enjoy stopping for Kerikeri Gelato, known locally for its small-batch gelato and sorbets made from fresh ingredients.
Nearby Blue River Orchard offers seasonal fruit grown in Northland’s warm subtropical climate, while The Parrot Place provides a colourful and entertaining stop with parrots and exotic birds set in a lush garden environment.
Staying in Kerikeri
Treghan Lodge offers private garden guesthouses just minutes from Kerikeri township and within easy reach of many of the experiences the Bay of Islands is known for.
From here it is easy to explore waterfalls, vineyards, coastal towns and historic sites while returning each evening to a peaceful garden setting.
For a printable overview of these locations you can also see our 12 Favourite Places to Explore in the Bay of Islands guide.