This spot is near the driveway of a Historic Place's managed property, Te Waimate Mission House. It is the second oldest wooden building in New Zealand (the oldest being down the road in Kerikeri, Kemp House) and it hosts a rich history.
The inside of Te Waimate is worth the $10 entry free (per adult; children are free) and the guides will tell you all about the rich history from its inhabitants since the 1830s. The gardens are free to visit, as is the neighbouring church, and well worth a stroll through Aotearoa's history. Recommend bringing a picnic and sitting on the lawns taking it all in.
Further infromation can be found: https://www.visitheritage.co.nz/visit/northland/te-waimate-mission and https://tohuwhenua.nz/regions/te-tai-tokerau-northland/te-waimate-mission/