"I lived there for six years and know the area really well.
'It's not just in Kerikeri, the Far North is massive. Playing there means that people from Kaikohe, Kaeo and Kaitaia can come down and have a look too.
"I know they will turn out in numbers and give us some great support from the sideline."
Northland start their season in the Lotto NRFL Division Two away to Metro FC this weekend, one of New Zealand's oldest football clubs.
The side are coming off a strong 2017 campaign where, despite losing their last match to eventual Division Two champions Fencibles United 4-1, they finished third.
With other results going their way, it was their best finish in four years.
Johnston said while they were looking forward to venturing to Kerikeri, they had a single focus ahead of their season opener.
"We're totally focused on the game this weekend, but we've talked about going up there and I know the boys are looking forward to it," he said.
Northland FC general manager Owen Liiv said the whole organisation was excited for the landmark game.
"With football on the rise in the Far North and a willingness by Northland FC management to promote the game throughout the region, this match has been scheduled for Kerikeri," he said.
"We're all excited about playing this game in the Far North, it's a great opportunity to show everyone that Northland FC is truly a regional football team.
"It's been a long time coming and I hope we can put on a good show for the people that come out to support us."
- The main event kicks off at 3pm on March 30, with the reserves playing beforehand at 12.30pm. Both games will be played at BaySport Waipapa, Harmony Lane, Kerikeri. Head to the Northland FC Facebook page for more details.