Russell New Zealand is one of the most peaceful little towns in the Bay of Islands. Pastel cottages, a leafy waterfront and an old wooden church give it a gentle, old-world charm. However, it was not always so quiet. In fact, in the 1830s it was a rowdy whaling port known as the “hellhole of the Pacific”. Today, it is a perfect base for exploring one of the most beautiful bays in the country. So, here is how to plan your visit.
Quick Facts About Russell New Zealand
| Country | New Zealand |
| Region | Bay of Islands, Northland, North Island |
| Known For | Early colonial history, historic buildings, a seaside promenade and Bay of Islands cruises |
| UNESCO Status | Not listed |
| History | Known as Kororāreka, it was New Zealand’s first European settlement and seaport |
| Best Time to Visit | December to March, with quieter weeks in November and April |
| Getting There | About three hours by car from Auckland, then a short ferry ride |
Where Is Russell New Zealand?
Russell lies on a peninsula in the Bay of Islands, in Northland at the top of the North Island. Specifically, it sits across the water from the towns of Paihia and Waitangi. In addition, a passenger ferry crosses the bay in about 15 minutes. As a result, it is easy to combine both sides of the bay in one trip.
Why Visit Russell New Zealand?
First, the town is full of history. Originally known by its Māori name, Kororāreka, it was the first European settlement and seaport in New Zealand. Consequently, several of the country’s oldest buildings stand here.
Second, Russell New Zealand is relaxed and beautiful. For example, you can stroll along The Strand, swim from small beaches and watch yachts sail across the bay. Finally, it is the gateway to dolphin cruises and island hopping. If you loved our guide to Akaroa in New Zealand, you will enjoy this other historic harbor town.
Things to Do in Russell New Zealand
Visit Christ Church
Christ Church was built in 1835, which makes it the oldest surviving church in New Zealand. In fact, its wooden walls still carry musket ball holes from the fighting of 1845. In addition, the churchyard holds graves of early settlers, sailors and Māori chiefs.
Tour Pompallier Mission
Pompallier Mission was built in 1842 for a French Catholic mission. Inside, the mission ran a printing press that produced religious books in the Māori language. Today, guided tours show how printing, binding and tanning were done by hand. Moreover, the garden in front leads down to the waterfront.
Stroll The Strand
The Strand is Russell’s waterfront promenade, lined with pōhutukawa trees and historic buildings. For instance, the Duke of Marlborough Hotel claims one of the oldest liquor licenses in the country. Then, sit by the water with fish and chips and watch the boats.
Climb Flagstaff Hill
Flagstaff Hill, or Maiki, rises just above the town. In the 1840s, the Māori chief Hōne Heke cut down the British flagpole here several times as a protest. Above all, the summit offers wonderful views over the Bay of Islands.
Day Trips From Russell New Zealand
Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Across the bay, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds mark the place where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840. Today, you can visit the Treaty House, a carved meeting house and an impressive war canoe. Therefore, it is the most important historic site in New Zealand.
Hole in the Rock and Dolphin Cruises
Boat trips leave daily to explore the islands of the bay. In particular, many visit the Hole in the Rock, a natural arch on Piercy Island. In addition, you may see dolphins, seals and seabirds along the way.
One Historical Fact About Russell New Zealand
In 1840, New Zealand’s first capital was set up at nearby Okiato and named Russell. Soon after, the capital moved to Auckland. Later, the name Russell was transferred to Kororāreka, the town you can visit today.
How to Get to Russell New Zealand
From Auckland, drive about three hours north to Paihia. Then, take the short passenger ferry across the bay to Russell. Alternatively, a car ferry runs from Opua to Okiato, just south of town. In addition, Kerikeri Airport has flights from Auckland and is about 30 minutes from Paihia.
Best Time to Visit Russell New Zealand
The best time to visit is in summer, from December to March, when the weather is warm and sunny. During these months, the sea is great for swimming and sailing. On the other hand, November and April are quieter and still pleasant. Also, the town’s pōhutukawa trees bloom bright red around Christmas.
Is Russell New Zealand Worth Visiting?
Yes, absolutely. Russell New Zealand combines history, coastal beauty and a slow pace of life. Ideally, stay at least two nights to explore the town and the bay. For another historic New Zealand town, read our guide to Arrowtown in New Zealand.
Final Thoughts on Russell New Zealand
In short, Russell is a quiet town with a colorful past. Visit Christ Church, climb Flagstaff Hill and cruise among the islands. By the end of your stay, you will understand why the Bay of Islands is so special.
Image Credits
Wikimedia Commons
- W. Bulach: 00 2829 Bay of Islands – New Zealand, CC BY-SA 4.0
- Chris Gilson: Christ Church, Russell 002, CC BY-SA 2.0
- brewbooks from near Seattle, USA: Flickr – brewbooks – Russell, Bay of Islands, NZ (2), CC BY-SA 2.0
- W. Bulach: 00 1563 Waitangi Treaty Grounds, National Reserve (NZ), CC BY-SA 4.0
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