Te Waimate Mission

Step into New Zealand’s colonial past at Te Waimate Mission, home to the country’s second oldest surviving building near Kerikeri in the Bay of Islands. Established in 1830 by the Church Missionary Society at Ngāpuhi chiefs’ invitation, this served as New Zealand’s first inland European settlement and model farming village. The elegant Georgian mission house built in 1832 stands as testament to early bicultural relationships and European farming introduced to Aotearoa.

Te Waimate played a pivotal role hosting the second signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi on February 9-10, 1840, when six Ngāpuhi rangatira signed The Waitangi Sheet. Distinguished visitor Charles Darwin spent Christmas 1835 here, enchanted by this model English farm. The village once comprised mission houses, flour mill, printery, carpenter’s shop, brickworks, blacksmith, school, and St John the Baptist Church.

Today visitors explore the beautifully preserved mission house with period furniture, agricultural tools, and historical artifacts. The grounds remain a working farm with heritage Pitt Island sheep. The nearby cemetery serves as reminder of the Northern Wars. Located twenty minutes from Kerikeri, Te Waimate offers profound glimpses into relationships and agricultural experimentation that shaped our nation.

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 1-2 hours for self-guided exploration
• Opening Hours – Check Heritage New Zealand website for current hours

Key Highlights & Facts

• Historic Building: New Zealand’s second oldest surviving building, constructed in 1832
• Tohu Whenua Site: Recognized as one of the places that shaped Aotearoa New Zealand
• Treaty Connection: Site where six Ngāpuhi rangatira signed Te Tiriti o Waitangi on February 9-10, 1840
• Darwin’s Visit: Charles Darwin stayed here Christmas 1835, enchanted by the model farm
• Model Farm Village: Original settlement included flour mill, printery, school, church, and workshops
• Working Farm: Still operating after nearly 200 years with heritage Pitt Island sheep
• Period Collection: Original furniture, agricultural tools, and historic artifacts on display
• Northern Wars Cemetery: St John the Baptist Church cemetery with graves from 1845 battles

Prepare for Your Trip (Important Information)

• Admission: Entry fees apply. Heritage New Zealand members receive free entry. Under 18 years free
• What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, camera, picnic (picnicking allowed in grounds)
• Accessibility: Mobility ramp available on request. Two-storey building with steps for entry
• Farm Safety: Working farm with electric fences and animals in some areas. Access may be restricted
• Kauri Protection: Do not walk on tree bases or climb trees to prevent kauri dieback disease spread
• Facilities: Picnic grounds, restrooms. Smoke and vape-free site
• Guided Tours: School group tours available, tailored to educational needs
• Location: 20 minutes from Kerikeri, Bay of Islands region
• Nearby Attractions: Kerikeri Mission Station, Rainbow Falls, Puketi Forest, Bay of Islands activities