Butler Point is a privately owned 26 hectare property in the Far North of New Zealand's North Island. Over the last three decades the proprietors of Butler Point, Lindo and Laetitia Ferguson, 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.
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 New Zealand Historic Places Trust as a nationally significant heritage building. The Gardens are included among the "gardens to visit" in the authoritative Friar's Guide to New Zealand Gardens.
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 and barbecue areas.
For more on some of Butler Point's attractions click on the following images:
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To visit Butler Point take State Highway 10 and continue 40 minutes north of Kerikeri. Six kilometres before Mangonui township turn right down Hihi Road, a sealed road that is suitable for all vehicles. At the end of Hihi Road turn left into Marchant Road. One hundred metres on, at the end of the road, is the Green Gate to Butler Point. Parking is 2 kilometres beyond the gate. A private jetty and mooring is available for those arriving by boat.
Butler Point is open to the public by appointment only. Please contact us before arranging your visit.
This website created January 2002. Text and images © L. Ferguson, 2002.
