Butler Point is a privately owned 26 hectare property in the Far North of New Zealand's North Island. For nearly five decades the proprietors of Butler Point, the Ferguson Family, have developed the property into a Macadamia orchard and one of the Far North's most fascinating heritage tourism destinations.
Butler Point is a 40 minute drive from Kerikeri, Bay of Islands, and just 15 minutes from the picturesque township of Mangonui, centre of the Doubtless Bay region.
The Point can also be reached by a 150 metre boat trip from Mangonui.
The Point can also be reached by a 150 metre boat trip from Mangonui.
Butler Point is notable for its association with the early history of the Far North. On the property are a Whaling Museum, acknowledged as one of the most comprehensive private museums of its kind in New Zealand; Butler House, the residence of Captain William Butler built in 1847; and Gardens of exotic and native flora, including extensive stands of ancient Pohutukawa trees. The Whaling Museum is a member of the Northland Museums Association and Butler House is recognised by the Heritage New Zealand as a nationally significant heritage building. The gardens have been recognised as a
'Garden of Significance' with the New Zealand Gardens Trust (NZGT).
'Garden of Significance' with the New Zealand Gardens Trust (NZGT).
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A pa (hillfort) on the property provides evidence of earlier occupation by Maori.
European manufactured items show that early historic contact
occurred between Maori and visiting whalers.
Other Butler Point attractions include an orchard, expansive grounds, and picnic facilities.
European manufactured items show that early historic contact
occurred between Maori and visiting whalers.
Other Butler Point attractions include an orchard, expansive grounds, and picnic facilities.
