Kerikeri

Kerikeri was the site of New Zealand's second mission, established by Samuel Marsden in 1819 with the unlikely blessing of Hongi Hika, a Maori chief renowned for terrorising North Island tribes.  Sitting on the Kerikeri inlet is the iconic Stone Store which is New Zealand's oldest stone building (1833). Alongside is Kemp House which is the country's oldest wooden structure built by John Butler in 1822. Both have been fully restored and invite visitors to explore. Hongi Hika's fortified pa lies across the water and also welcomes visitor. Today Kerikeri is known for its fruit orchards and fine arts and crafts.