Kerikeri’s Best Stops for Art, History and Relaxation

From art galleries to historic buildings and lush landscapes sweeping the horizons in between, Kerikeri is a traveller’s dream. Nestled into the top of the North Island/Te Ika-a-Māui and part of the Bay of Islands, all that you need to have an incredible time in this charming town is your Thrifty rental car and an appetite for adventure.

Check Out the Plethora of Arts and Crafts Around Kerikeri

If you’re looking to add some art to your adventure around Kerikeri, you’re in luck! Kerikeri is home to a collection of unique and interesting spots to discover some of the best art around town. For a design store or a ceramics shop, make sure to check out Kaleo Designs and Country Corner. If browsing an art gallery is more your speed, the Little Black Gallery is a must-stop. This gallery is sure to blow your mind with its impressive displays of everything from jewellery to visual art, designs to objects. A beloved spot by locals, the gallery houses work from not only New Zealand artists, but also a range of international creators. Whether you just want to window shop, or take home something to remember your travels by, the Little Black Gallery is the perfect place for you.

Step Back in Time at the Stone Store and Kemp House

If you’re after an exciting history lesson as you explore the town of Kerikeri, there’s no going past the Stone Store and Kemp House site at the Kerikeri Mission Station. This historic area is home to some of the most significant buildings in the country, being the site where Māori first invited Pakeha (Europeans) to live among them. There is a small cost for entry into the Kerikeri Mission Station, however it’s completely worth it to learn more about the incredible history of not only this heritage town, but the whole of New Zealand. Only a five-minute drive north of town, this is your chance to step back in time and discover the stories of the past. Knowledgeable guides will teach you more about the significance of this site, and there’s also the museum and the Stone Store to browse, as well as a cafe to sit down in for a rest between adventures.

Learn About Kerikeri Culture at Rangihoua Heritage Park

The history lesson doesn’t stop there! To learn even more about the cultural significance of this region, head out to the stunning Rangihoua Heritage Park. While it's a little bit further away (around half an hour’s drive), this historical spot is well worth it—so is the drive there! The Rangihoua Heritage Park is home to a memorial that marks where New Zealand celebrated their first Christmas Day. The Marsden Cross was erected in 1907 to commemorate where this festive occasion was celebrated way back in 1814. Not only is this a site that is filled with historical importance, it’s also a picturesque one that delivers jaw-dropping views of the ocean and rolling green hills that perfectly frame this treasured monument.  

Discover Ultimate Relaxation at Rainbow Falls

If you’re looking for a place to wind down and sit back, we’ve got just the one for you! Rainbow Falls is the prized gem in Kerikeri’s crown of natural jewels. Situated at only a ten-minute drive from the town centre, Rainbow Falls is sure to make your jaw drop right down to the floor. This majestic beast of nature boasts a 27 metre drop of falling water into a thrilling pool below. The three viewing platforms situated along the walking track mean that you can pick and choose the perfect spot to watch the brilliant display of water—as well as find the perfect selfie spot! To make this stop one of ultimate relaxation, consider bringing a picnic and some rugs along with you on this adventure. Nothing quite beats the peaceful serenity of tucking into some delicious refreshments and snacks as the waterfall soundtracks your afternoon by the glistening pool of water.

Whether it’s marvelling at local art, stepping back through treasured history or relaxing into nature in the heart of Kerikeri, this charming town is filled with adventurous stops for you to check out in your Thrifty rental car.