Some of the best days don’t require a long drive.
Just a few minutes from Treghan Lodge, Kerikeri offers a wonderful mix of history, waterfalls, vineyards, local food, art and gardens. It’s a town that’s easy to enjoy at a leisurely pace, whether you spend a few hours exploring or make a full day of it.
This is one of those days we still enjoy ourselves. Everything is close by, there’s no need to rush, and it reminds us just how much there is to discover within a few minutes of Treghan.
If It’s Saturday, Start at the Packhouse Market
If your stay includes a Saturday, we’d suggest beginning your day at the Kerikeri Packhouse Market.
It’s one of Northland’s best-loved markets, bringing together fresh local produce, artisan food, handmade crafts, plants and flowers in a relaxed, friendly setting. Grab a coffee, wander through the stalls and enjoy the atmosphere before continuing your day. If you’re visiting during the week, don’t worry. Simply start at the next stop.
A Sweet Stop at Makana
Just across the road from the market is Makana Confections.
Watching the chocolatiers through the viewing windows is always fascinating and it’s almost impossible to leave without taking home a few handmade chocolates.
They’re perfect for enjoying back at Treghan later that evening.
Rainbow Falls
From Makana it’s only a few minutes’ drive to Rainbow Falls.
One of Northland’s most beautiful waterfalls, Rainbow Falls is surrounded by native bush and several viewing platforms that offer different perspectives of the falls.
If you’d like a little more exercise, follow part of the Kerikeri River Track, where the river winds through peaceful native forest.
Many visitors are surprised to learn that this peaceful spot also played an important role in Northland’s history.
In 1930, the hydroelectric power station built here became the first public electricity supply for Northland, bringing electricity to homes and businesses throughout the region. It was a remarkable engineering achievement for its time.
Today, it’s hard to believe somewhere so tranquil was once at the heart of Northland’s electricity network. It’s another reminder that throughout the Bay of Islands, beautiful places often have fascinating stories waiting to be discovered.
Lunch Among the Vines
By lunchtime we’d head to Marsden Estate.
Set among the vineyards, it’s one of our favourite places to linger over lunch. The menu changes with the seasons, the setting is peaceful, and if you have time afterwards you can enjoy a tasting of their Northland wines before continuing your day.
Discover the Kerikeri Basin
Spend the afternoon exploring one of New Zealand’s most significant historic places.
The Kerikeri Basin is where history, culture and beautiful scenery come together. Begin at Te Ahurea, the region’s cultural and heritage centre, where you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the stories that have shaped the Bay of Islands.
From there, explore the Stone Store, New Zealand’s oldest surviving stone building, and neighbouring Kemp House, the country’s oldest surviving European building. Wander beside the tranquil inlet, enjoy the gardens and river setting, and take your time soaking up the atmosphere that makes this such a special place.
If you enjoy art and design, it’s also worth stopping by The Little Black Gallery. Just a few minutes away, the gallery showcases original New Zealand art, handcrafted jewellery, ceramics and glass by talented local and national artists. We always enjoy seeing what’s new, and many of our guests tell us it’s one of the unexpected highlights of their stay.
Ending The Day
Before returning to Treghan, we often finish the day with dinner at The Plough & Feather overlooking the Kerikeri Basin. It’s a relaxed way to end the day, with good food, a lovely setting and only a few minutes’ drive back to your private guesthouse.
Back at Treghan
One of the reasons we enjoy this itinerary is that it never feels hurried.
Everything is close together, there’s time to linger wherever something captures your interest, and you’ll still be back at Treghan in plenty of time to relax in your private guesthouse after dinner.
Sometimes the most memorable days aren’t about travelling further. They’re about discovering the special places that are right on your doorstep.
Continue Exploring
Discover more of our favourite day trips, from the historic waterfront of Russell to historic Mangonui and Doubtless Bay and the dramatic landscapes of the Hokianga. Each itinerary is designed to help you experience Northland at a slower, more relaxed pace.
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Your Far North Escape
Experience Northland by land, sea and air with our signature experience. Enjoy a scenic helicopter flight, an Island Getaway cruise, a vineyard lunch and three nights in your own private guesthouse.
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Stay a Little Longer
Some places deserve more than a day. Extend your stay and explore the Bay of Islands, Doubtless Bay and the Hokianga at your own pace with our Stay Longer offers.