Historic Northland
Historic Northland. New Zealand is still a very young country, especially when you consider many of us have ancestral roots in Britain, Ireland, and Europe, places that are steeped in history. Northland holds the lion's share of New Zealand's history where Europeans first began setting up home in our beautiful land, and many of the oldest buildings and significant events happened in this area. For any history buff, Northland will not disappoint as all historical sites and landmarks are a scenic drive away from each other. Most of our customers choose to pick up a rental vehicle from Kerikeri airport, with our map in hand, ready to explore. Here are our top suggestions for your next historical adventure. For more Northland must visits, check out our destinations page. Kerikeri Mission Station The Kerikeri Mission Station is one of the first places where Maori invited visitors to live among them. Fierce warriors, drunken sailors and, missionaries trying to convert the masses make for some great storytelling from those working at The Stone Store and Kemp House - part of the station grounds. Russell Christ Church in Russell is the oldest church in New Zealand, this charming little church sits in the beautiful Bay of Islands' township of Russell. See if you can spot the musket and cannon ball holes in the side of the church from battles between Maori and British forces from 1845. Russell has much history to offer with a past that includes being NZ's first capital. Waitangi Treaty Grounds With rave reviews on TripAdvisor, Waitangi is a must see when visiting the Bay of Islands. This is New Zealand's most important historic site, where in 1840 New Zealand's founding document was signed and the relationship between Maori and European settlers began. The ground includes an excellent museum, guided...
