Kerikeri

The Reverend Samuel Marsden established the first mission in New Zealand in 1814 after purchasing land from local Māori for 48 axes.

Marsden also planted the first grape vines in New Zealand on 25 September 25 1819 here.

Kerikeri Mission Station

The site for the mission where there was a good landing, to the left and a river flowing from the right to provide a good source of water.

Mission House

Mission House / Kemp House

New Zealand’s oldest house was built in 1821-22 for the Rev John Butler. It was known as the Mission House until being sold to mission blacksmith James Kemp and his wife Charlotte in 1832.

The Kemp family remained in residence until 1976 when it was gifted to the nation by Ernest Kemp, a great grandson of James and Charlotte.

Mission gardens

The gardens here were established in 1819. One had to be self sufficient of course if you are one of the earliest settlers in and area. 

St James Church

This is the third church built in this area and was dedicated in 1878. A major restoration and repair project was carried out in 1968 after a tornado knocked it off its foundations. It has recently had a new roof and paint job.

Stone Store

The Stone Store

The oldest stone building in New Zealand opened in 1836 although construction started earlier in 1832. The keystone above the door has 1833 carved in the Sydney sandstone by the stone mason William Parrott.