Waitangi Treaty Grounds & Historic Kerikeri
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port
Russell (Bay of Islands), New Zealand
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activityLevel
Moderate Activity
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excursionType
Information Not Currently Available
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wheelchairAccessible
No
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startingAtPrice
$150
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minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
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duration
Approximately 3½ Hours
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mealsIncluded
Meals not included
It was here in the Bay of Islands that many of this young country's formative events occurred. Transfer from Waitangi Wharf to the Waitangi Treaty House. In 1840, the leading Maori chiefs of the area signed a treaty with the British Crown on this very spot. The loss of their sovereignty has been a contentious issue ever since.
Walk through the grounds where you will see a finely carved marae (meeting place) and a huge waka (canoe). The views across the Bay of Islands to Russell are beautiful.
Your tour continues to Kerikeri, where you will see New Zealand's oldest buildings. Visit Kemp House, built by the early missionaries who also built the Stone Store alongside.
Nowadays, Kerikeri is an important citrus growing area, where much of New Zealand's orange and grapefruit crop is raised. It is also a popular haven for artists and craftspeople.
Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes.