Looking for budget stays in Kerikeri? This section is designed to save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. We've got insider tips to help you find affordable hostels and the cheapest places to stay in Kerikeri.
Kerikeri, New Zealand, is the largest town in Northland and is located approximately three hours north of Auckland. Getting to Kerikeri can be a little difficult, but it's well worth it. Travelers have the option of flying from Auckland to Kerikeri, renting a car, or -- for the more budget conscious -- there is the option of taking an intercity bus from Auckland.
Kerikeri is famed among Kiwis for its lifestyle, history, and cultural heritage, not to mention its close proximity to the Bay of Islands. Kerikeri has some of New Zealand's most historic buildings, including Mission Station. This historic landmark and former church has been transformed into the local pub, serving up some of the best food in Kerikeri.
For those interested in New Zealand's Maori history, Kerikeri boasts a fully reconstructed Kainga (Maori unfortifed village), called Rewa's Village. This village originally existed when Europeans first arrived in New Zealand and was named after one of the three chiefly brothers that lived in the area. Today Rewa's Village is a fully reconstructed replica of the former village and features housing, traditional cooking facilities, canoes, and rahui.
Above the Kerikeri basin also sits a former Pa site (stockaded fortress). There is not much left of the site, but it is possible to wander around and see the old barrows and terraces, where Maori people would have once defended their city from other tribes.
Kerikeri's boutique wineries and farmers markets, selling delicious local produce, attract visitors from all over. The area is also famous for its artisanal chocolates. The combination of wine, fresh produce, dairy, and chocolate really make Kerikeri a food lovers' paradise.
Kerikeri is mostly a hotel sort of town, however it does have a few accommodation options for budget travelers. Kerikeri has a variety of camping options; campsites range from basic to more luxurious fares. There are also a number of guesthouses in Kerikeri and a farm hostel in Kerikeri, New Zealand, which allows you to visit the animals. The guesthouses in Kerikeri are beautiful; many of them are housed in lovely old houses. Many guesthouses, camping grounds, and hostels in Kerikeri, New Zealand, are located just outside of the city centre, although there are a couple of budget motels within the city centre.
Written by Travel Expert Kerikeri
Chloe