Kerikeri & the Bay of Islands
Experiences
Kerikeri 5 waterfall walks
There are many great walks in and around the Bay of Islands, and Kerikeri’s Five Waterfall walks have become very popular.
From the famous Rainbow Falls (Waianiwaniwa) to the rediscovered Te Wairere falls, and possbily Kerikeri’s worst kept secret, the pretty ‘Charlie’s Rock’; you’ll find a waterfall walk to suit. Further afield there are great walks in the Puketi kauri forests. For a challenge try the Kerikeri to Waitangi forest walk.
Life’s a beach – find your own!
Whilst the Bay of Islands proper is famous for its island scenery and water activities, the BEST accessible beaches are to the north of Kerikeri starting with the Matauri Bay scenic drive, continuing up to many hidden sandy bays and beaches. By the time your reach the Karikari pennisula, you could be on a tropical island! Wait. You are!
It shouldn’t be too hard to find a private sunny, sandy patch of paradise to yourself. Try that in Paihia!
Modern New Zealand starts here
Kiwis rediscovering the Bay of Islands and the North often have high school memories of visiting the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, and remember it as an ‘old house on the hill with a nice view‘.
Be prepared for a shock. The new museum cover the journey of Aotearoa’s settlement to the signing of the Treaty and beyond, and a commemoration of New Zealand’s famous Maori Battalion will reinvigorate your knowledge and quite possibly leave you in tears.
Once your visit is over, connect to the history: Kororipo & Rangihoua Heritage Parks and many Heritage New Zealand historic buildings and sites are all within a short distance of Kerikeri. It all started here.
Golf – 6 courses, including one of our finest
Kauri Cliffs golf course overlooking the spectacular Cavalli Islands is on the bucket list of many international golf player visitors. It’s only a 25 minute drive north from Moon Gate Villa, but while you’re here, why not try one of many other golf courses?
The Bay of Islands golf course is championship standard, and tee off is only a short 5 minutes away!
Cast your net a little wider, and you’ll find courses to explore in Waitangi, Whangaroa, Kaikohe and Carrington Estate on the Karikari Pennisular.
