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HISTORY OF NORTHLAND
AOTEAROA
(NEW ZEALAND)
Maui – Legend tells us that the North Island of New Zealand is actually the world’s largest fish. Maui, a Maori hero of ancient times, hooked the enormous fish during an expedition to prove his fishing powers, If you look at a map of the North Island, you can see that Wellington is the head, Cape Taranaki & East Cape are fins, and Northland is the tail of the fish – Te Hiku o Te Ika.
Kupe and his crew, in his waka Matahourua, voyaged deep into the southern ocean. He discovered Te Ika-a-Maui, and it was his wife Kuramarotini who called the land `Aotearoa` (land of the long white cloud). The first landfall of the waka Matahourua was the shores of the Hokianga Harbour.
Explorers, traders & missionaries
Europeans began living in Northland in the late eighteenth century. They came first on voyages of scientific exploration, soon to be followed by traders, seeking deep-sea whales and seal colonies. Missionaries headed the next wave of arrivals. On Christmas Day in 1814, on the northern shores of the Bay of Islands. Samuel Marsden preached the first Christian sermon in New Zealand. Soon mission stations were established throughout the region.
3 ˝ hours drive from Auckland brings you to the beautiful Bay of Islands
The natural beauty of the Bay of Islands has to be seen to be believed, it’s an aquatic playground lavishly furnished with 144 islands and a myriad of secluded beach’s. Every bay, shore and cove has a story to tell.
The townships of this historic bay are alive with memories of the area’s colourful history. Visitors are welcome to explore the well-preserved relics of the past, both Maori and European. You’ll find out why the Bay of Islands is considered to be the birthplace of New Zealand as a bi-cultural nation.
Wherever you are in the The Bay of Islands, it’s impossible to escape the lure of the sea. There are almost endless opportunities for immersing yourself in the blue-green world of Island and beach, Take a cruise, Charter a yacht or launch, Dive or snorkel, Paddle a sea kayak in and out of the islands’ nooks and crannies. Swim with the dolphins.
Paihia is known as the jewel of the magnificent Bay of Islands, Blessed with shimmering safe waters and superb beaches. Paihia is a good place to be based for your Bay of Islands experience. For it is here you will find the warmest of welcomes alongside world-class accommodation, restaurants and enchanting holiday activities.
Throw away your watch and let time stand still as you go barefoot along unspoiled beach’s, join a cruise through history or try your luck in the famous fishing grounds, Or if your game is adventure perhaps skydiving, parasailing, Bi-Spherical Momentus experience, scuba or snorkel diving, kayaking or a beautiful bushwalk will take your pleasure.
Paihia is the place of friendly locals happy cafes and people enjoying life. Whether it is swimming with the delightful dolphins, taking in a spot of retail therapy or just propping up a tree with a good book, Paihia will be the place for the holiday you will want to come back to.
A quick ferry ride across the water from Paihia is the charming, elegant township of Russell. It’s hard to believe that this romantic place was once known as “the hell hole of the Pacific” When it was the shore leave destination for sailors, whalers and traders during the 19th century. Russell is still a preference for boaties today who seek safe anchorage and pleasure.
Historic buildings to visit include the rammed earth Catholic Mission “Pompallier” and Christ Church, which still carries the bullet holes from the Maori wars, and if you want to discover Russell’s exciting past call into the museum. You’ll enjoy the colonial architecture, cafes, restaurants and craft galleries of Russell.
Truly one of New Zealand’s most historic sites being the place where both Maori and European joined in signing the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840. The Treaty House stands proudly amongst a vast peaceful estate. Included is a full carved Maori Meeting House, one of the largest Maori War Canoes and a superb Visitors centre and Gallery. The estate is a must see for visitor interested in New Zealand’s history and culture.
Haruru means “big noise” , which is a good indication that these falls are worth seeing. The water falls in a horseshoe shape very rare and quite spectacular, and Maori legend states that a taniwha (water monster) lives in the lagoon below. You can walk to the falls along the Waitangi walking track, or drive to Haruru falls township- which is only 3 kilometres from Paihia. In the 1800s, there were over 100 Maori villages along the Haruru Falls river.
Kerikeri was home ground for the fearsome Hongi Hika, a Maori chief who terrorized many tribes throughout the North Island in the early 1800s.
Yet he was kind to missionaries allowing Samuel Marsden to make Kerikeri New Zealand’s second mission station.
The township and environs of Kerikeri glory in the production of fruit and art. All along the side of the road, orchards sell their delicious oranges, kiwi fruit and avocados. And every so often you’ll see a sign that indicates the presence of a potter, painter, leadlight artist or sculptor. Follow the art and craft trial and you’ll get to know some of the artisans. Kerikeri also has excellent café’s and restaurants in the area.
Historical highlights of Kerikeri include Kemp House, the country’s oldest house built by John Butler in 1822. The Stone Store followed and by 1836 was in use as the mission store. These wonderful buildings, together with the replica Maori village Rewa’s village, on the opposite bank, are regarded as the “Cradle of the Nation” and a must see for all visitors to the Bay of Islands.
Within minutes by car or an hour’s walk from the basin carpark is the 27 metre Rainbow Falls, Further afield lies the Puketi Forest, an ideal place to tramp and view kauri trees.
