Kerikeri Mission Station

Step back in time at Kerikeri Mission Station, home to New Zealand’s oldest surviving buildings and one of the nation’s most significant heritage sites in the Bay of Islands. Established in 1819, this is one of the first places in Aotearoa where Māori invited European visitors to live among them. Built under the protection of local Ngāpuhi chiefs eager to harness European trade and technology, the mission station grew amidst tribal warfare and increasing foreign ship visits.

The Stone Store, constructed between 1832 and 1836, is New Zealand’s oldest stone building. This Georgian warehouse houses an interactive museum bringing historical stories to life. Operating as a general store since the 1870s, it now offers authentic trade goods and New Zealand merchandise. Next door stands Kemp House, completed in 1822 as New Zealand’s oldest building. Available by guided tour only, this historic home retains original furnishings and paintings from the Kemp family who lived here until 1974. Knowledgeable guides share compelling stories of warriors, missionaries, and Māori-Pakeha relationships leading to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

The award-winning heritage garden, continuously cultivated for nearly two centuries, is New Zealand’s oldest European garden featuring heritage roses, orchard, cottage flowerbeds, and magnificent specimen trees. The Honey House Café offers freshly baked goods and refreshments featuring garden produce.

About this Activity

• Free cancellation – Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
• Reserve now & pay later – Keep your travel plans flexible
• Duration – Allow 1 to 1.5 hours for your visit
• Opening Hours – Daily 10:00am-5:00pm. Closed Christmas Day and ANZAC morning

Key Highlights & Facts

• Historic Buildings: Tour New Zealand’s oldest building (Kemp House, 1822) and oldest stone building (Stone Store, 1832-1836)
• Interactive Museum: Self-guided exploration of the Stone Store Museum with fascinating exhibits
• Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides lead tours through Kemp House with original furnishings and family artifacts
• Heritage Garden: Award-winning garden of national significance, continuously cultivated for nearly 200 years
• Cultural Significance: Early Māori-Pakeha relationships and colonial history
• Working Store: Continues trading tradition with unique New Zealand merchandise
• Family Friendly: Large grounds perfect for picnics and exploring history
• On-Site Café: Honey House Café with fresh baking and garden produce

Prepare for Your Trip (Important Information)

• Admission: Entry fees apply. Accompanied children under 18 are free. Heritage New Zealand members receive free entry
• What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, camera, sunscreen and hat
• Accessibility: Garden lawns mostly level for wheelchairs. Historic buildings not wheelchair accessible. Mobility parking available
• Facilities: Honey House Café on-site, free parking, restroom facilities available
• Dogs: Welcome on leads at all times
• Location: 246 Kerikeri Road, Kerikeri, Bay of Islands
• Nearby Attractions: Rainbow Falls, Rewa’s Village, Wharepuke Sculpture Park, and Kerikeri River Track