Kerikeri Basin on the cusp of something great
New Zealand Historic Places Trust Information Release
13 May 2008
The Kororipo-Kerikeri Basin is about to be given a new lease on life
according to the New Zealand Historic Places Trust's Destinations Manager
for Northland, Gordon Hewston.
"Kerikeri is on the cusp of something new and exciting. The removal
of the road bridge, which will reduce the very real risk of floods destroying
Kemp House, will also bring spin-off benefits by removing over 7000 vehicles
each day from the Basin," says Gordon.
"We often see people dodging the traffic in front of the Stone Store
and have very real concerns for the elderly and young children over safety.
With the road gone, there is huge potential for the Basin to become a
living and vibrant place for the community and visitors alike."
The Kororipo-Kerikeri Basin is set to become an idyllic place for visitors
to enjoy - whether they're local families, or tourists from further afield.
"We want people to enjoy the riverbank and waterfront area near
the historic buildings, which will be a great place for picnics,"
he says.
Gordon's experience in heritage management for the UK's National Trust
includes looking after a range of places including a Roman villa, churches,
Napoleonic-era fortifications and Iron Age Hill forts. He was also involved
in managing Sherwood Forest.
"The Kerikeri Mission Station and wider Basin area has huge heritage
significance, and stands as an equal to some of the finest heritage sites
in the world. It easily justifies its potential World Heritage Site status,
but that doesn't mean it should be frozen in time," he says.
"Our concept of heritage is dynamic - not static. We obviously need
to protect the heritage of the Basin but at the same time we need to provide
inspiration and enjoyment for our generation, and those of the future."
The new footbridge will be located just upstream from the Honey House
(the cottage behind Kemp House) and commuters wanting to get to town will
have a quick walk up the drive to the main road. There will also be an
option for a beautiful walk along the river bank to get to Kemp House
and the Stone Store.
"This is the best location for the footbridge as it makes it easier
for people to enjoy the riverbank area and walk across the Basin, while
at the same time meeting heritage protection criteria," says Gordon.
Gordon is keen for everyone to enjoy the heritage of the Basin.
"We charge an admission fee for the Stone Store and Kemp House to
offset the cost of looking after these places to the tax-payer. This is
completely consistent with the legal terms of the sale and gift from the
Kemp family," he says.
"What many people don't know is that locals can already shop at
the Stone Store for free as we want people to get to know and be proud
of their heritage. The Store will be open throughout the Basin works -
so come down for a look, and have a chat."
For further information
Gordon Hewston
Heritage Destinations Manager
Northern Region
Tel: 021 976 656
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