Russell's Must-Dos 2022-23

Russell Waterfront @NorthlandNZ

Russell is romantic and pretty but behind the beauty lays a salacious past. Handsome heritage buildings speak nothing of their former guise; the church is scarred with gunshot holes and the thumbprints of convicts can still be found in the bricks.

Duke of Marlborough

With the tag line ‘Refreshing Rascals and Reprobates since 1827’ how could you resist a stay, drink or meal at the iconic Duke of Marlborough Hotel? Fronting the esplanade with a regal interior and beautiful balustrade terrace overlooking the sea.

Flagstaff Hill Loop Walk

This walk wends its way through native bush to the top of the hill, where you can see the famous flagstaff that was chopped down four times by Māori in opposition to British rule. Soak up the views and stroll over to the centennial sundial.

Pompallier Mission House

During the 19th century this Catholic Mission printed various religious texts into Māori. Cradled in a blooming garden, a guidedtour and heritage walk will reveal its most striking features, including the old process of printing and bookbinding.

Christ Church

This is New Zealand’s oldest surviving church, which is remarkable considering the mayhem it had to endure. The church’s walls still show bullet holes from Russell’s slew of historic altercations.

Ōpua

Ōpua’s lively marina is a sailing haven, bustling with boaties. The car ferry to Russell and many scenic cruises also departs from here. On your way home stop in for fresh fish and chips from The Old Store Takeaways.

Dining in Russell @ Tourism New Zealand

TOP TIP: Gettting from Russell to Paihia, catch the 10-minute car ferry from Ōpua to Ōkiato, shortening the drive time between Paihia and Russell by 40 minutes.