Kerikeri Mission Station
Located in an idyllic setting in the Bay Of Islands sits one of New Zealand’s historic landmarks. It’s a real contrast to times of yesteryear when Maori met European missionaries. Stories of rocky times between these contrasting people are shared at the station.
Founded in 1819 , under the protection of local chiefs , who were looking to tap into trade and technology of Europe to develop opportunities for their tribes. All this during a time of tribal warfare and greater interest from visiting foreign vessels.
The Mission now provides a place to visit and learn the history of tougher times where missionaries worked to share the Christian message to the Maori people who had their own traditions and myths of creation. Some extraordinary people of the times are highlighted.
Two of New Zealand’s oldest buildings sit on this site and have been restored to preserve the stories of this coming together of contrasting cultures. Both house museums are open to the public and sell authentic goods reflecting the items that were traded in the early 1800’s.
Just 5 minutes from Kerikeri , Luxury Tours Of New Zealand can take you to this little piece of history for a coffee or ice cream while taking in its history