Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Ward Essentials

This collection highlights the colonial and Māori history of the Bay of Islands. It features the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the site of New Zealand's founding document, alongside the nation's oldest surviving buildings in Kerikeri: the 1822 Kemp House and the 1832 Stone Store. Natural landmarks include the ancient kauri trees of Puketi Forest and the horseshoe-shaped Haruru Falls. The list also includes unique architectural sites like the Hundertwasser Toilets in Kawakawa and cultural institutions in Russell and Paihia.

Waitangi Treaty Grounds

The site where the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed in 1840. The grounds include the Treaty House, a carved meeting house (Te Whare Rūnanga), and large ceremonial waka (war canoes).

Kemp House

The Mission House at Kerikeri in New Zealand was completed in 1822 as part of the Kerikeri Mission Station by the Church Missionary Society…

Haruru Falls

Haruru Falls is a five-metre-high waterfall near the settlement of Haruru in the Far North District of New Zealand, three kilometres west…

Wharepuke Falls

A five-metre-high waterfall located along the Kerikeri River Track, accessible via a walking trail from the Stone Store basin.

The Treaty House

Built in 1833 for British Resident James Busby, this is one of New Zealand's oldest houses and the site of negotiations leading to the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi.

Hundertwasser Toilets

A functional public toilet and work of art in Kawakawa, designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser using recycled glass, ceramic tiles, and integrated vegetation.

Stone Store

The Stone Store at Kerikeri in the Bay of Islands is New Zealand’s oldest surviving stone building.

Russell Museum

Exhibits detailing the history of Kororāreka, featuring a one-fifth scale model of Captain Cook's Endeavour and displays on early Māori-European contact.

Paihia Beach

A central sandy beach located along the waterfront of the town, used for swimming and as a departure point for local water activities.

Puketi Kauri Forest

A large native forest area featuring ancient kauri trees, accessible via boardwalks and walking tracks designed to protect the delicate root systems.

Te Rau Aroha

A museum within the Waitangi Treaty Grounds dedicated to the service and sacrifice of Māori in the New Zealand Armed Forces, particularly the 28th (Māori) Battalion.