Kerikeri

Kerikeri is often referred to as the cradle of the nation because so much of New Zealand's earliest history, especially interactions between M?ori and Europeans, took place here. A major citrus and kiwifruit growing area, it was once principally a service town for the whole mid-north region. Though newcomers have flocked to Kerikeri for its low-key lifestyle, it still feels like a small town. The Sunday farmers’ market is a treat.

The Kerikeri Proctor Library, open weekdays 8 to 5, and Saturday from 9:30 to 2, is the only place in Kerikeri that provides visitor information, and it's far less extensive than other bureaus.