Established in 1819, the Kerikeri Mission Station is one of New Zealand’s first places where Māori invited visitors to live among them.
Built under the protection of local Māori chiefs who were keen to harness the trade and technology of Europe, Kerikeri Mission Station grew amidst a backdrop of tribal warfare and ever-increasing visits from foreign ships.
Located in the heart of Kerikeri, one of the many activities available to visitors is touring the historic area with experienced guides who will share stories of fierce warriors and drunken sailors, and the earnest missionaries who preached, taught and battled to spread the Christian message amongst Māori; a proud people with their own ancient traditions.
The Kerikeri Mission Station is the site of two of the country’s oldest surviving buildings – the Stone Store and Mission House (aka Kemp House).
Stone Store
The Stone Store was built in the 1832 from sandstone, local volcanic rocks and burnt shell mortar, and has been a trading post, library, barracks and boys’ school. The building has operated as a general store since the 1870s, and today offers an amazing range of authentic trade goods similar those first traded in the early 19th century, along with a quirky range of uniquely New Zealand merchandise.
Mission House
Mission House is New Zealand’s oldest building, a substantial European home, built by Māori and missionary carpenters. Despite bearing witness to many historically significant events, Mission House has changed little over time. Experience the rich history of this home, as guides take you back through time and relive days gone by.
