Exploring Kerikeri’s Historical Sites on a Budget-Friendly Family Day Out

Kerikeri’s cultural history even stretches back beyond the missions, with a range of interesting cultural sites to explore throughout its large expanses of natural scenery. Discover the history that is hiding below the surface around Kerikeri in your Thrifty rental car and buckle up for an adventure of a lifetime. Let’s go!

Pay a Visit to the Stone Store and Kemp House

The first stop on your history tour of Kerikeri has to be the spectacular Kerikeri Mission Station. Kerikeri is known as the country’s foremost historic area, being the birthplace to Māori and Pakeha (European) relationships. The Stone Store and Kemp House is one of the most significant sites in Kerikeri to learn about this rich history and the Kerikeri Mission Station. This spot is one of the first places where Māori invited Pakeha to live among them, highlighting the importance of their ongoing relationship from early in the 19th century. While entry into this site isn’t free, the price is relatively cheap, and children under 18 can get in for no cost at all. Not only will you be able to marvel in awe at these heritage buildings around the mission, but the knowledgeable guides that run the tours are also an incredible way to learn more about the rich history that’s built into the walls of the buildings as well as around the grounds of the mission.  

Stop by Rainbow Falls for a Picnic

If you’re in the mood for another dose of historic gold but you want to mix things up a bit with a venture into the incredible natural playground that Kerikeri is home to, there’s no going past a trip to the majestic Rainbow Falls. Not only is this adventure free, but it also makes for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by the lush native bush that has characterised Kerikeri for millennia. Pack a picnic and a towel to really make the most of this serene gem. Only ten minutes out of the centre of town, the walk to the falls is easy and beautiful, delivering scenic landscapes of the lush environment and the native creatures. Look out for fantails flitting about as you walk along and keep an ear out for the calls of the tui. Arriving at the viewing platforms to the falls is sure to deliver a picture unlike no other—the rush of water down over the rocks is a thrilling sight to see. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, take a dip in the refreshing pool below. This way, you can really get in touch with nature and appreciate the environment that has evolved and grown throughout the history of Kerikeri. 

Step Back in Time at Rangihoua Heritage Park

This next historical site combines the best of both worlds of rich history and stunning views, so you don’t need to choose between the two! Journey out to Rangihoua Heritage Park, about half an hour north of the centre of Kerikeri, and you’ll discover the monument that was erected to commemorate the first celebration of Christmas Day in New Zealand in 1814. Set against the rolling green hills and sparkling blue ocean, the Marsden Cross memorial site marks a significant chapter in the country’s history of when Māori and Europeans began to learn to live side by side. You won’t have to pay a cent to visit this site, either.

Get Amongst Nature at Kororipo Heritage Park

The scenic Kororipo Heritage Park is another chapter in the history of how Māori and Europeans began their relationships many years ago. Kororipo has always been an important landing and meeting place, being situated on the water. Even now, many boats use this area to dock and land, recreating the journey of the people that were moving through this region hundreds of years ago. To really explore Kororipo Heritage Park and get amongst both its nature and history, head out on any of the scenic walks around the lush landscape. The Hongi Hika Walk is a short, easy and beautiful walk that would be perfect for the whole family. There’s also the Kororipo Pā Historic Walk that will lead you through the footsteps of chief Hongi Hika and the early missionaries—another great walk for both little ones and big ones.

Step back in time on your adventures throughout Kerikeri and learn more about the rich historical and cultural significance of this area. In your Thrifty rental car, it’s easy to explore the region and make the most of these budget family-friendly activities.