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Heritage & Culture

Kerikeri – Where New Zealand's Story Began

Known as the Cradle of the Nation, Kerikeri is one of New Zealand’s most significant historic destinations. It was here that some of the country’s earliest relationships between Māori and Europeans were formed, helping shape the story of Aotearoa. Home to New Zealand’s oldest surviving buildings, the historic mission station, early vineyards and citrus orchards, Kerikeri has long been a place of innovation and firsts. Visitors can explore the rich heritage of the Kerikeri Basin, discover the stories of Ngāpuhi and the historic Kororipo Pā, wander through beautifully preserved heritage sites, and experience a vibrant culture that continues to thrive today. From fascinating history and Māori heritage to arts, food and local traditions, Kerikeri offers a unique connection to New Zealand’s past and present.

Heritage & Culture

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The Kerikeri Theatre Company

Experience live theatre in Kerikeri with Kerikeri Theatre Company. This vibrant community-driven group stages a variety of productions, from contemporary plays to timeless classics, offering visitors a chance to enjoy local talent, immerse themselves in storytelling, and experience the creative heart of the town.

Turner Centre

The Turner Centre is a vibrant performing arts and events venue in Kerikeri offering theatre performances, community programs, conferences, exhibitions and versatile hire spaces for everything from meetings to major cultural events.

Te Waimate Mission House

Discover the tranquil setting of New Zealand’s first inland mission station at Waimate North. Surrounded by rolling farmland, this peaceful heritage site offers a deeper, more contemplative look at early missionary life and Māori–European relationships in a rural setting just inland from Kerikeri.

Marsden Cross

A short walk across farmland leads to one of New Zealand’s most significant historic sites. Marsden Cross marks the location of the country’s first Christian service, combining coastal views, open landscapes, and a powerful sense of early contact between Māori and European settlers.

Te Ahurea

Te Ahurea is a living interactive Māori heritage experience set alongside Kororipo Pā, one of Aotearoa’s most significant cultural sites. Whānau and manuhiri alike are welcome to explore this unique space of cultural learning, healing, and connection.

Kerikeri Mission Station — Stone Store and Kemp House

Step into New Zealand’s earliest European settlement at the Kerikeri Mission Station, home to the iconic Stone Store and Kemp House. Set beside the tranquil river, this historic precinct blends heritage, nature, and culture—offering a relaxed, immersive glimpse into the country’s earliest cross-cultural encounters.

Cathay Cinema

Cathay Cinemas in Kerikeri is a beloved, historic three-screen movie house offering mainstream films alongside art-house, festival and speciality screenings. Comfortable, accessible and community-focused, it hosts International and local film events, Festivals, Community, Specialty and Private cinema events— making it a cultural hub for visitors and locals alike.