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Get acquainted with the rich traditions and culture of the Maori people, who have lived in this area for more than 800 years. Your Maori guide welcomes you, and you'll transfer to nearby Kerikeri.
Stop for photos of the historic Kerikeri Mission Estate, where two of New Zealand's oldest buildings are located -- Kemp House and the Stone Store. (This is a photo stop only).
Continue through the pretty town of Kerikeri, well known for its citrus orchards.
A special highlight will be a visit to a traditional marae or meeting place. A drive through the lush green Northland countryside leads to the marae. Here you will experience a special welcome after entering the carved meetinghouse. The elders of the tribe will explain the carvings and the traditions of the Maori people. They trace their ancestry back to the earliest canoe voyages to New Zealand from Polynesia. A light refreshment is served.
Return to the Bay of Islands via Waimate North, where, for a short time in the late 1830s and early 1840s, the influential Anglican Church established its New Zealand headquarters.
Finally, visit the many locations around the Waitangi Reserve where Maori ancestors fiercely debated the Treaty of Waitangi -- New Zealand's founding document. A viewpoint overlooks the treaty house grounds.
Notes: Please note there is approximately 1 hour 45 minutes of driving time on this tour.