Just up the hill from Kerikeri Mission Station is a marked historical walk that leads to the site of Hongi Hika's (fortress) and village. Little remains aside from the terracing that once supported wooden palisades. Huge war parties once departed from here, terrorising much of the North Island and slaughtering thousands during the Musket Wars. The role of missionaries in arming Ngāpuhi remains controversial. The walk emerges near the cute wooden St James Anglican Church (1878).


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Rewa’s Village

0.15 MILES

If you had a hard time imagining nearby Kororipo Pā in its original state, take the footbridge across the river to this mock-up of a traditional Māori…

2. Kerikeri Mission Station

0.19 MILES

Two of the nation's most significant buildings nestle side by side on the banks of Kerikeri Basin. Start at the Stone Store, NZ's oldest stone building …

3. Wharepuke Falls

0.69 MILES

What it lacks in height this attractive waterfall makes up for in breadth. It's accessed from the Kerikeri River Track.

4. Charlie's Rock

1.12 MILES

This secret swimming hole is not easy to find, but those who do are rewarded with a plunge in the crisp cold water. Ask the locals how to get here; you…

5. Rainbow Falls

1.37 MILES

An impressive waterfall on the Kerikeri River that can also be accessed via the road. An historic tea house is close by for those walking from the river…

6. Aroha Island

2.87 MILES

Some 10km from town and reached via a permanent causeway through the mangroves, this 12-hectare island reserve provides a haven for the North Island brown…

7. Cottle Hill

3.53 MILES

Call into the cellar door for a tasting of wine, port and grappa. It's just off SH10 south of Kerikeri.

8. Haruru Falls

6.36 MILES

A walking track (one way 1½ hours, 5km) leads from the Treaty Grounds along the Waitangi River to these attractive horseshoe falls. Part of the path…