So you’re saving your money for all the good things like skydiving but you’ve got a few hours to pass in Kerikeri? We’ve got you covered with these 5 things you can do for absolutely free in Kerikeri:
1: Visit Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls, Maori name Waianiwaniwa, (Waters of the Rainbow), are located on the Kerikeri River just five minutes drive from the centre of town.
This 27m waterfall is popular with both locals and visitors. View it from multiple viewing platforms at the top or head down the hill to the base of the waterfall for more incredible views.
If you’re super keen you can even follow the 3.5km Kerikeri River Walk all the way to the Kerikeri basin where the Stone Store and historic Kororipo Pa are located. This well maintained track will take you around 1.5 hours to walk from the falls to the Stone Store.
A rainbow at Rainbow Falls
Climb around the back of Rainbow Falls for a different view
2: Go fishing!
There are fishing opportunities galore in the Bay of Islands! Seafood, or kaimoana in M?ori, is plentiful in the region. Sure, you need a rod, bait and a little determination but that could be all it takes to catch yourself some dinner! There are a number of fishing spots around the Kerikeri inlet, with pan-size snapper prevalent. And hey, the local fish ‘n’ chips shops are good if you come up short!
Fishing off the rocks in Opito Bay
3: Opito Bay Lookout
Just a little further out of Kerikeri township (15km) you will find Opito Bay. The track begins at the boat-ramp end of Opito Bay beach and splits into a series of short, easy walks. You can visit a small beach in the Te Puna Inlet and climb up to the a pa site on Tareha Point. With its sweeping views across the Bay of Islands the beautiful scenery make this a winner!
Looking out over the Te Puna inlet at Opito Bay
4: Charlie’s Rock
Charlie’s Rock is a waterfall and an extremely popular swimming spot. In summer you will find plenty of other people making the most of this semi-hidden gem. There is very little signage for Charlie’s Rock making it somewhat elusive. Just make your way to Landing Road, park your car in the Waipapa landing car park and wander back up the footpath about 100m until you see the ‘Welcome to Charlie’s Rock Walkway’ sign. Don’t forget your swimmers and towel!
Charlie’s Rock is the perfect summer swimming spot
5: Visit the Stone Store
The Stone Store at Kerikeri in the Bay of Islands is New Zealand’s oldest surviving stone building. Worth a look then right? It’s an easy 2 minute drive or twenty minutes walk from the town centre. After checking out the Stone Store wander around the stunning ground with its beautiful gardens and of course the Kerikeri river. Top tip! This is a perfect picnic spot but if you don’t want to pack your own food there is a café and restaurant nearby.
The Stone Store in Kerikeri
Watch this space for 5 Things You Can Do For Absolutely Free in Paihia!