Five historic sites near Kerikeri

The Stone Store and Kemp House.

Classic historic places are not just for the foreign tourists - retrace early New Zealand stories when you're on the road.

1. The Stone Store and Kemp House
246 Kerikeri Road, Kerikeri

A working slice of old New Zealand, the Stone Store's shop is well curated (no nasty tat here) in a beautiful fragrant building. Built in 1832, it is the oldest surviving commercial building when trade between Sydney and local Maori boomed. Next door's mission building has layers of history cleverly revealed, a beaut vege garden and a great walk.

2. Pompallier House
The Strand, Russell

The French Catholic mission headquarters is one of the few French Provincial buildings, considered the birthplace of the nation. Check out the working mission factory.

3. Te Waimate Mission House
344 Te Ahu Ahu Rd, Waimate North

Built in 1832, this is the only survivor of Reverend Samuel Marsden Church Missionary Society houses, built with the agreement of local Nga Puhi. The very pretty veranda and shingled roof have just been restored, the chapel and graveyard fascinating for a wander.

4. Mangungu Mission
Motukiore Rd, 3km from Horeke, Hokianga Harbour

Established in 1828 under the protection of Ngapuhi leader Eruera Maihi Patuone for the Wesleyan Mission. It hosted Governor William Hobson for the second major signing of Treaty of Waitangi. The house has moved between Onehunga and the Hokianga Harbour, returning here for restoration in the 1970s. This is the Twin Coast Cycle Trail Pou Herenga Tai, so bring your bike to explore more.

5. Clendon House
14 Parnell St (enter from Clendon Esplanade), Rawene

An unpretentious 1869 house for Captain Clendon and Hokianga Maori wife Jane, it witnessed New Zealand's Declaration of Independence in 1835, the first United States Consul in 1838, the Treaty of Waitangi.

SEEING THE SITES

Best deal: Grab yourself a New Zealand Historic Places Passport (available at all NZHPT Northland places) and visit five Northland historic places for the price of two.