Kerikeri River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kerikeri River |
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The Kerikeri River tumbles over a ford into the Kerikeri Basin. Kerikeri's historic buildings are in the background the Stone Store (left), St. James Church (centre rear) and the Mission House
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| Native name | Kerikeri |
| Region | Northland Region |
| District | Far North District |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Puketi Forest |
| River mouth | Bay of Islands 35°13′S 173°58′E / 35.217°S 173.967°E |
| Length | 20 kilometres (12 mi) |
| Basin features | |
| Waterfalls | Rainbow Falls (Waianiwaniwa), Wharepoke Falls |
The Kerikeri River is a beautiful waterway in the Northland region of New Zealand. It starts in the Puketi Forest and flows into the Bay of Islands. Even though it's not very long, it's famous because it ends at a very important historical spot called the Kerikeri Basin. Many tourists visit this area every year to see its history and lovely buildings.
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The Kerikeri River's Journey
The Kerikeri River is about 20 kilometers (12 miles) long. It begins in the Puketi Forest, which is a beautiful forest area. From there, it makes its way to the Bay of Islands, a well-known part of northern New Zealand.
Where the River Meets the Sea
The river flows into the Kerikeri Basin. This basin is the very top part of the Kerikeri Inlet, which is an arm of the Bay of Islands. The river water flows over a ford, which is like a shallow crossing, into the basin.
For many years, a bridge crossed the river at this spot. However, it was taken down to help protect the old, historic buildings nearby. A new bypass bridge was built further upstream and opened in 2008. A special bridge just for people walking was also built around 2010.
A River of History
The area around the Kerikeri River is one of the most visited places in New Zealand. This is because it has a rich history and many old, beautiful buildings.
Famous Old Buildings
- The Stone Store was built in 1832. It is the oldest stone building that is still standing in New Zealand.
- Next to the Stone Store is the Mission House. This house was built in 1822. It is the oldest wooden house still standing in Australia and New Zealand. It used to be called "Kemp House."
- Up a hill behind these buildings is St James' Church. There has been a church on this spot since 1829. The church you see today was built in 1878.
The River's Role in History
The Kerikeri River was important to a famous Māori chief named Hongi Hika. His fort, called Kororipo Pa, is about 100 meters (330 feet) across the basin from the ford. Hongi Hika used the river and the paths next to it to travel to Kororipo. This fort played a big part in the historic Musket Wars.
Fun Things to See and Do
A popular walking track starts from the Kerikeri Basin. This track follows the river for about five kilometers (3 miles). It leads to the amazing Rainbow Falls.
Rainbow Falls and Old Power Station
The Rainbow Falls are a spectacular sight where the river tumbles down. You can see them from the walking track. You can also see the remains of one of New Zealand's very first hydroelectric power stations along the river. This power station used the river's water to make electricity a long time ago.
