Things to do Russell Tours & Attractions

Things To Do In Russell Bay of Islands

Russell, a quaint and historic town in the Bay of Islands, offers a romantic escape with its charming accommodations, top-class restaurants, and a unique island-like ambience.

Nestled on a narrow peninsula, this picturesque town is steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

At the turn of the 19th century, Russell—then known as Kororāreka—was the first permanent European settlement in New Zealand.

Once a swashbuckling town of whalers and sealers with a reputation as the “Hell Hole of the Pacific,” Russell was renamed in 1844 to honor the British Colonial Secretary of the time.

Explore Russell’s Historic Charm

Russell is home to some of New Zealand’s most treasured heritage sites:

• Pompallier Mission: Built in 1842, this is the only surviving French Catholic mission building in Australasia. Visitors can enjoy hands-on experiences at the pioneer printery and stroll through stunning heritage gardens with views over the bay.
• Christ Church: Dating back to 1836, this is New Zealand’s oldest surviving church, complete with bullet holes from the 1845 Battle of Kororāreka.
• Russell Museum: Te Whare Taonga o Kororāreka showcases Russell’s rich history, featuring exhibits, videos, and an impressive scale model of Captain Cook’s Endeavour.

Romantic Holiday Destination

With exquisitely restored historic buildings, abundant fresh seafood, and a thriving arts scene, Russell is one of New Zealand’s most romantic holiday destinations. Its range of restaurants and cafes, offering locally sourced cuisine, creates the perfect setting for an unforgettable getaway.

Outdoor Adventures and Activities in Russell

As the gateway to the Bay of Islands, Russell is the base for numerous water activities, including:

• Fishing trips.
• Sailing adventures.
• Cruise the Bay of islands.

For nature enthusiasts, Russell offers stunning coastal walks:

• • Flagstaff Hill Walk: Magnificent views overlooking the Bay of Islands and a historic site of early Māori-British interactions.

• Tapeka Point Historic Reserve: A headland walk with panoramic ocean views.
• Oneroa Bay (Long Beach): A tranquil, sheltered beach perfect for swimming and picnics.

Plan Your Visit to Russell

Whether you’re exploring its rich history, indulging in fresh local cuisine, or enjoying marine adventures, Russell offers something for everyone. Discover the charm of this Bay of Islands gem and create lasting memories.

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How to Get to Russell, Bay of Islands

Nestled in the stunning Bay of Islands, Russell is accessible via scenic routes and ferry services. Whether you’re traveling by car, ferry, or bus, getting to Russell is an adventure in itself.

Passenger Ferry to Russell From Paihia

The most popular way to reach Russell is via the passenger ferry from Paihia. This short 15-minute journey offers breathtaking views of the bay and is a favourite among visitors exploring the Bay of Islands. Ferry services run frequently throughout the day.

Car Ferry from Opua to Russell

If you’re traveling with a vehicle, the car ferry from Opua to Okiato is the easiest option. The ferry operates regularly, and the short crossing provides convenient access to Russell, allowing you to explore the area at your own pace.

Drive to Russell via Old Russell Road

For a scenic road trip, drive along the Old Russell Road from Whangarei. This picturesque route offers stunning coastal views, winding roads, and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s a 3-hour drive from Auckland or 1 hour from Whangarei.

By Intercity Bus from Auckland

Several bus operators provide regular services from Auckland to Paihia. Once in Paihia, you can easily transfer to a passenger ferry to complete your journey to Russell.

Fly with Air New Zealand

For the fastest option, fly into the nearest airport, Kerikeri (Bay of Islands Airport), and enjoy a scenic 45-minute drive or shuttle ride to Russell.

Whichever route you choose, the journey to Russell is part of the experience, offering spectacular views and an introduction to the beauty of the Bay of Islands.

Did You Know? Fun Facts About Russell

Russell is a town steeped in history and natural beauty, offering visitors a wealth of fascinating stories and unique experiences. Here are some fun facts about Russell:

Russell Was New Zealand’s First Capital

In 1840, Russell (then called Kororāreka) was declared New Zealand’s first capital before the title moved to Auckland and later Wellington.

Russell Once Known as the ‘Hell Hole of the Pacific’

During the 19th century, Russell was a lawless town infamous for its rowdy sailors, whalers, and traders.

Home to New Zealand’s Oldest Church

Christ Church in Russell is the oldest surviving church in New Zealand, dating back to 1836. Bullet holes from the 1845 Battle of Kororāreka can still be seen in its walls.

Pompallier Mission House Is Australasia’s Only Surviving French Mission Building

Built in 1842, Pompallier Mission was the headquarters of the French Catholic mission in New Zealand and is made of rammed earth—a unique construction style.

It served as a printing house, producing religious texts in te reo Māori. Today, visitors can experience hands-on fun in the only surviving pioneer printery in New Zealand and stroll through its stunning heritage gardens overlooking the bay.

The Russell Town’s Name Honours a British Prime Minister

Russell was renamed in 1844 to honor Lord John Russell, who was the British Secretary of State for the Colonies at the time.

Russell Flagstaff Hill’s Famous Standoff

Flagstaff Hill marks the site where Hone Heke, a Māori chief, repeatedly chopped down the British flagpole as a protest against colonial rule.

Russell Is Predator-Free

The Russell peninsula is part of New Zealand’s conservation efforts, creating a predator-free environment to protect native birdlife like kiwi and tūī.

A Popular Stop for Artists

Russell has a rich arts scene and is home to many painters, sculptors, and craftspeople inspired by the area’s beauty.

Russell is the Gateway to Marine Adventures

The town is a prime launching point for exploring the Bay of Islands, offering activities like sailing, diving, and dolphin watching.