Russell Bay of Islands as Part of a Private North Island Tour
Historic waterfront charm and colonial history in Russell, Bay of Islands.
Russell Bay of Islands is a historic seaside destination in Northland, offering a fascinating combination of New Zealand history, heritage buildings, waterfront scenery and Bay of Islands culture. Once known as Kororāreka, Russell was New Zealand's first seaport and European settlement, with the country's first capital established at nearby Okiato.
A private visit can include a walk through Russell's historic streets, Russell Wharf, Christ Church, Pompallier and the waterfront around The Duke of Marlborough. Pompallier is one of New Zealand's earliest surviving French colonial buildings, while The Duke of Marlborough occupies an important place in Russell's waterfront history.
Great North Tours can include Russell Bay of Islands in a customised private North Island itinerary, with private transport and guidance throughout your visit. Russell can also be combined with Paihia, Waitangi, Kerikeri and other Northland attractions.
For travellers interested in New Zealand history, coastal scenery and smaller historic towns, Russell provides an opportunity to explore the Bay of Islands at a relaxed pace while discovering some of the people, places and events that shaped early New Zealand.
Russell Bay of Islands FAQs
What is Russell Bay of Islands known for?
Russell is known for its rich early New Zealand history, historic waterfront, heritage buildings, seaside setting and connection with the Bay of Islands. It was an important early seaport and settlement and is now a popular destination for exploring Northland's history and coastal scenery.
Where is Russell New Zealand?
Russell is located in the Bay of Islands in Northland, New Zealand. It sits across the bay from Paihia and can be reached by passenger ferry from Paihia or by road using the vehicle ferry from Opua.
Why is Russell historically important?
Russell has an important place in New Zealand's early European history. Originally known as Kororāreka, it became an important seaport and settlement, with historic buildings and streets that reflect its role in the development of the Bay of Islands.
Was Russell New Zealand's first capital?
Russell is commonly described as New Zealand's first capital. More precisely, the first capital was established at Okiato, near present-day Russell, before the seat of government was moved to Auckland.
How do I get to Russell from Paihia?
The easiest way for many visitors is the passenger ferry from Paihia across the Bay of Islands. The crossing takes around 15 minutes, making it convenient to visit Russell as part of a Bay of Islands itinerary.
How do I get to Russell by car?
Drivers can travel to Russell via the vehicle ferry from Opua. The ferry crossing is short, allowing Russell to be included in a Northland road trip or private tour itinerary.
What can I see in Russell?
Russell attractions include the historic waterfront, Russell Wharf, Christ Church, Pompallier and the area around The Duke of Marlborough. Flagstaff Hill also provides views across the Bay of Islands and surrounding coastline.
What is the Duke of Marlborough in Russell?
The Duke of Marlborough is a historic waterfront hotel, bar and restaurant on The Strand in Russell. It has a long connection with the town's history and is recognised as New Zealand's oldest licensed hotel.
What is Pompallier in Russell?
Pompallier is a historic building in Russell associated with New Zealand's early Catholic mission. Built in the 1840s, it was used as a printery, tannery and storehouse and is now an important heritage site.
Can I visit Russell on a private tour?
Yes. Great North Tours can include Russell in a customised private North Island itinerary, with private transport and guidance. The visit can be tailored around your group's interests, available time and other Northland destinations.
What are some things to do in Russell New Zealand?
Things to do in Russell include exploring the historic streets, visiting heritage buildings, walking around Russell Wharf and the waterfront, visiting Christ Church and Pompallier, enjoying local dining and taking in views from Flagstaff Hill.
Can Russell be combined with other Bay of Islands attractions?
Yes. Russell can be combined with destinations such as Paihia, Waitangi, Kerikeri and other Bay of Islands attractions. A private itinerary allows your route and timing to be arranged around the experiences your group wants to include.