Historic sites in Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Ward

Historic Sites & Memorials

Explore the historical landscape of Northland through its strategic Māori pā and significant memorials. This collection includes Ruapekapeka Pā, the site of the final battle in the Northern War, which showcases innovative 19th-century trench warfare. The list features coastal fortifications like Rangihoua and Tapeka, alongside modern sites of remembrance such as the Rainbow Warrior Memorial at Matauri Bay and the Victorian-era Church of St John in Waimate North.

Winstonwolfe / CC-BY-SA-3.0

Ruapekapeka Pā

Ruapekapeka, a pā 20 kilometres southeast of Kawakawa in the Northland Region of New Zealand, is one of the largest and most complex pā in…

Pahi Pa

A traditional Māori fortification site located on a strategic headland.

Rangihoua Pa

A strategic Māori fortification overlooking the site of New Zealand’s first permanent European mission station, established in 1814.

Tapeka Pa

A fortified Māori headland pā situated at the northern end of the Russell Peninsula, featuring defensive earthworks and views across the Bay of Islands.

Rainbow Warrior Memorial - Greenpeace Ship

A sculpture by Chris Booth at Matauri Bay commemorating the 1985 sinking of the Greenpeace flagship. The site overlooks the Cavalli Islands where the vessel was scuttled.

Church of St John, Waimate North

A timber church built in 1871 on the site of New Zealand's first inland mission. The grounds include a historic graveyard and memorials to local servicemen.