Before you go

Your trip to Kerikeri.

Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.

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Kerikeri – Northland Destination Bay of Islands

How to get there

  • Aeroporto da Baía das Ilhas (KKE) 6 km
  • Parada de ônibus de Kerikeri 1 km

Approximate road distances. Check flights and bus schedules before you travel.

By plane, from Auckland to the Bay of Islands Airport (KKE), about 6 km from the town center, in under an hour. By car, about 245 km from Auckland via SH1 and SH10, or 25 km from Paihia. Scheduled buses from Auckland also stop in town.

How many days

Half a day for the Stone Store, Kemp House and Rainbow Falls. A full day allows you to do the complete river trail and visit local orchards and producers.

When to go

Year-round. In summer, from December to February, it’s warm and the river trail is more pleasant early in the day. In winter, from June to August, the waterfall usually has more water and it’s citrus harvest season.

The seasons shown are the most usual ones; nature doesn't always follow the calendar.

Do you need a car?

Yes, in practice. Points of interest are spread out from the town center and local transport is limited; a car also links Kerikeri to Paihia and the rest of the bay.

Suggested itinerary

An order that works

Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.

One day in Kerikeri
  1. Morning
    Kerikeri Mission

    Visit Kemp House and the Stone Store exhibition and climb the Kororipo hill track on the other side of the river.

  2. Afternoon
    Trail to Rainbow Falls

    Follow the Kerikeri river trail on foot, passing Wharepuke Falls, to Rainbow Falls. Return by trail or by car.

  3. Late afternoon
    Return to Paihia

    Return to Paihia, about 25 km away, for late afternoon in the bay.

Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.

Before you go

Frequently asked questions

Is Kerikeri far from Paihia?

No. It’s about 25 km, roughly a 25-minute drive.

What to do in Kerikeri?

Visit Kemp House and the Stone Store, the country’s oldest buildings, and do the river trail to Rainbow Falls.

Is it worth arriving in the Bay of Islands via Kerikeri?

Yes, for those flying from Auckland: the airport is 6 km from town and about 25 km from Paihia.

Do you need a car in Kerikeri?

It’s the most practical option, as attractions are outside the town center and local transport is limited.

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