Russell Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Russell showing a coastal town and a bay or harbour
Russell featuring street scenes, café scenes and a bay or harbour
Russell which includes rugged coastline and a bay or harbour
Russell showing a coastal town, sailing and a bay or harbour
Russell showing a bay or harbour

Discover colonial charm, a colourful history and picturesque oceanfront scenery when you visit New Zealand’s oldest town. 

Stroll through Russell’s charming narrow streets to find historic architecture, gift shops and relaxing oceanfront cafés. Visit some of New Zealand’s oldest buildings and discover the town’s history as a Maori settlement and European whaling port. Walk along the nearby cliffs for stunning sunset views before returning to the town for a dinner of locally caught fish in one of the town’s superb restaurants.

Russell, formerly Kororāreka, was first settled by European whalers in the early 19th century and is the oldest “pākehā” (European) town in New Zealand.It was once known as the “hell hole of the Pacific” due to the debaucherous antics of the whalers and seamen that settled here. Today, Russell’s charming colonial buildings, pleasant restaurants and peaceful ambience have given it a reputation for being one of the most desirable destinations in New Zealand.

Learn about the antics of the sailors and the early battles between the local Maori people and the European settlers that took place here when you visit Russell Museum. This intriguing museum also contains a scale model of Captain Cook’s ship, The Endeavour. If the town’s history interests you, visit New Zealand’s oldest industrial building, Pompallier House. This historic building was built in 1841 and contains an original printing press and tanner, both of which are still operational today. Nearby, you’ll find New Zealand’s oldest church, built in 1836.

Notice the pretty colonial architecture throughout the town as you wander along the streets. Find souvenirs in the gift shops or enjoy a coffee break in a café.

The best way to get to Russell is by ferry, as driving there requires a considerable detour. Take a short ferry trip from Paihia and keep an eye out for dolphins as you cross the water.

Russell is located in the Bay of Islands and has a mild year-round climate, making it a pleasant place to visit in any season. Indulge in luxury accommodation in peaceful and historic Russell or find budget lodgings across the water in Paihia.

Where to stay in Russell

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Te Wahapu

When in Te Wahapu, you can plan a visit to Paihia Beach and Russell Christ Church, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Te Wahapu
The Duke of Marlborough Hotel
The Duke of Marlborough Hotel
4.5 out of 5
35 The Strand, Bay of Islands, Russell
The price is NZ$159 per night from 15 July to 16 July
NZ$159
15 July - 16 July
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Russell. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9/10 Wonderful! (823 reviews)
"Historic charm, wonderful location, right on the waterfront, an icon."

Reviewed on 8 Jul. 2025

The Duke of Marlborough Hotel
Russell - Orongo Bay Holiday Park
Russell - Orongo Bay Holiday Park
4 out of 5
5960 Russell Road, Russell
The price is NZ$70 per night from 16 July to 17 July
NZ$70
16 July - 17 July
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star eco-certified holiday park in Russell. Enjoy free parking, WiFi (surcharge), and an airport shuttle (surcharge). Popular attractions Bay ...
8/10 Very Good! (95 reviews)
"Love you"

Reviewed on 5 Jul. 2025

Russell - Orongo Bay Holiday Park
Bellrock Lodge
Bellrock Lodge
3.5 out of 5
22 Chapel Street, Russell
The price is NZ$248 per night from 15 July to 16 July
NZ$248
15 July - 16 July
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star luxury guesthouse in Russell. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Bay of Islands and Russell Christ ...
10/10 Exceptional! (116 reviews)
"Very good, all amenities, toiletries and crockery that one may need were available. Excellent accommodation, will definitely be back."

Reviewed on 4 May 2025

Bellrock Lodge
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Seaport Village
Seaport Village
3.5 out of 5
10 Chapel Street, Russell, Far North
Stay at this 3.5-star family-friendly apartment in Russell. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and in-room massages. Popular attractions Bay of Islands and Pompalier ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (94 reviews)
"The location, just a block from the harbor, was excellent. The room was spacious, and the kitchenette well stocked. The decor was not fancy, but we were comfortable and felt at home, which helped make our stay excellent."

Reviewed on 18 Jan. 2025

Seaport Village
Absolute waterfront - with privacy and views
Absolute waterfront - with privacy and views
Tapeka Point (Russell)
Stay at this vacation home in Russell. Enjoy free WiFi, a sauna, and a garden. Popular attractions Bay of Islands and Tapeka Point Historic Reserve are located ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (19 reviews)
Spectacular View
"The property is perfectly situated, very private snd just a short drive from Russell. The LR and BRs offer a panoramic a view of the ocean. A four minute walk away is a sandy beach for swimming. I could not be more pleased."

Reviewed on 30 Mar. 2025

Absolute waterfront - with privacy and views
Romantic Waterfront - Russell - Fantastic Location
Romantic Waterfront - Russell - Fantastic Location
Russell
Stay at this vacation home in Russell. Enjoy air conditioning. Popular attractions Bay of Islands and Russell Christ Church are located nearby.
Romantic Waterfront - Russell - Fantastic Location
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Activities

Reviews of Russell

4.8
Top destination
5 - Excellent
62
5 - Excellent 83%
4 - Good
12
4 - Good 16%
3 - Okay
1
3 - Okay 1%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Russell is a beautiful, good vibe place. I love it there ❤️

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

This visit we opted for smaller tour operators and rate them very highly: Sea Shuttle - a 4-5 hour adventure to Roberton Island and Urupukapuka Island for snorkeling, paddle-boarding and nature walks. Russell Nature Walks for Kiwi spotting at night.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Wonderful place to spend time.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Russell is a beautiful destination and will surely return. Having accommodation that was clean and the owners ever so helpful was a bonus.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Oh it is just beautiful .One of the BEST places in the WORLD

5/5 - Excellent

Tru

The Pompallier mission and printers is very interesting. The Russell Boat Club served an awesome steak

Cities near Russell