National register of heritage sites managed by DOC
Northland heritage sites
Northland
Northland was the cradle of both Maori and European settlement of New Zealand.
For both cultures the North has had a long, fascinating and at times turbulent past, and Northland's landscapes, historic sites and buildings still reflect this history: the signs of the past remain clear on the face of the land.
Te Whara or Bream Head is a rich archaeological landscape resulting from more than 500 years of Maori occupation.
You can visit the historic Cape Brett Lighthouse that stands at the entrance to the Bay of Islands.
The afterlife is a spiritual concept shared by many cultures. Visit the site of departure for Māori spirits.
Find out more about the rich Maori and European history of Mimiwhangata.
Motukiore Island is a 5-ha recreation reserve located in Parua Bay, about 8 km east of Whangarei. It has a fascinating history, being both an important vantage point for Maori in prehistoric times, and a focus of early European industry in Whangarei Harbour.
Following the realisation in the 1870's that New Zealand needed a network of lighthouses to protect shipping from natural hazards, Motuopao was chosen as the site best suited as the location of a light to protect shipping using the dangerous waters at the northern tip of the country.
Northland/Te Taitokerau contains a wealth of significant historic heritage and, in a historic and cultural sense, is rightly considered the 'Cradle of the Nation'. Find out more about prehistoric Taitokerau, European "discovery" and colonisation, and settlement and industry in Northland.
Ruapekapeka is the site of the last battle in the north (1845-46). As a defence against the British, Te Ruki Kawiti built tunnels, rifles pits and trenches surrounded by a palisade.
On Urupukapuka an interpreted archaeological walk winds past pa sites, kainga (villages) and complexes of kumara storage pits.
Find out more about the traditional and early historical significance of Whangaruru.
The value of conservation
New Zealand Historic Places Trust www.historic.org.nz
International Council on Monuments and Sites www.icomos.org
Ministry for Culture and Heritage www.mch.govt.nz
New Zealand Archaeological Association www.nzarchaeology.org
