Russell is one of the most historic and atmospheric destinations in the Bay of Islands, offering a unique blend of heritage, coastal beauty, and relaxed seaside living. Once New Zealand’s first European settlement, Russell played a major role in early colonial history and remains one of the country’s most culturally significant towns.
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Historic Russell – Boutique Seaside Escape in the Bay of Islands
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Russell is an historic seaside village in the Bay of Islands, located just a short ferry ride from Paihia in the Northland region. Known for its peaceful waterfront, heritage buildings, and relaxed coastal atmosphere, Russell offers a quieter side of the Bay of Islands with rich cultural history, scenic views, and boutique dining experiences.
Things to do in Russell
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Northland Attractions & Activities by Area
Popular in Russell
4.5hr // Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island...
Hole in the Rock & Cape Brett Lighthouse
from NZ $169.00
4 Hours 30 Mins 
Hole in the Rock Cruise
Hole in the Rock, and when conditions permit travel through it
from NZ $170.00
04:30 hours
from NZ $175.00
5 hours 30 mins
Russell Mini Tours
Tour this tranquil seaside town once called the ‘Hell hole of the Pacific
from NZ $40.00
01:00 hoursActivities and Attractions in Russell
Days Out Fishing Charters Bay of Islands
Extreme Fishing in the Bay of Islands
from NZ $400.00
5 Hours 
R Tucker Thompson
A unique activity taking part sailing the heritage tall ship R.Tucker Thompson
from NZ $205.00
05:30 hours
Super Cruise Combo - The Cream Trip including...
1.5 hour island stopover at Otehei Bay
from NZ $225.00
08:30 hours
from NZ $3200
6 Hours 
from NZ $245.00
4 Hours Find your perfect Russell experience
Travel Guides
Frequently Asked Questions about Russell
Where is Russell located?
Russell is located in the Bay of Islands, in the Northland region of New Zealand’s North Island. It sits across the bay from Paihia and is accessible by ferry or boat, about 60 km north of Whangārei.
What is Russell best known for?
Russell is best known for being New Zealand’s first permanent European settlement, with rich historic sites such as Christ Church (built 1835) and Pompallier Mission. It’s also famous for its picturesque waterfront, charming cafés, and boutique shops, making it a popular destination for history lovers and leisure travelers alike.
Is Russell family‑friendly?
Yes, Russell is family-friendly, offering safe beaches, gentle walking routes, parks, and ferry access to nearby attractions. Its relaxed pace, cafes, and historical sites make it suitable for visitors of all ages.
What is the weather like in Russell?
Russell enjoys a subtropical climate with warm summers (22–28°C / 72–82°F) and mild winters (10–17°C / 50–63°F). The area enjoys plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor sightseeing, boat trips, and beach activities.
How long should I spend in Russell?
A visit of 1–2 days is usually enough to explore the historic sites, waterfront, and nearby beaches. For a more relaxed pace or to include day trips to Paihia or the surrounding Bay of Islands, 4-5 days is ideal.
Is Russell good for outdoor activities?
Yes, Russell is great for outdoor activities such as ferry trips across the Bay of Islands, sailing and boat cruises, kayaking, fishing, swimming, coastal walks, and wildlife spotting, offering options for both adventure seekers and families.
Tourist Information About Russell
Explore Russell’s History, Views & Heritage Walks
Russell is one of New Zealand’s most historic seaside towns, offering a unique blend of heritage, waterfront scenery, and relaxed coastal charm in the Bay of Islands.
One of the best ways to experience Russell is on a guided heritage tour. Local sightseeing tours take visitors through the town’s most important historical landmarks, including early colonial buildings, churches, and waterfront heritage sites that tell the story of New Zealand’s first European settlement.
Key highlights often include Christ Church Russell, New Zealand’s oldest surviving church, and nearby historic sites such as Pompallier Mission. Scenic drives also take in Flagstaff Hill, offering panoramic views across the Bay of Islands, including Paihia, the islands, and the surrounding coastline.
Russell tours are a great way to understand the town’s transformation from its early whaling and trading days into today’s peaceful heritage destination.
Cruise the Bay of Islands – Hole in the Rock & Island Adventures
One of the most popular experiences from Russell is a cruise through the Bay of Islands to the famous Hole in the Rock at Cape Brett.
Visitors can choose from a range of cruises including dolphin watching tours, fast boat adventures, and scenic sailing experiences. Many tours travel through sheltered islands and marine wildlife hotspots where dolphins, seabirds, and occasionally whales can be seen.
Some cruises also include stops at island beaches such as Urupukapuka Island, offering swimming, walking tracks, and time to explore conservation land.
The Hole in the Rock is one of New Zealand’s most iconic coastal landmarks and a must-do experience when visiting Russell.
Sailing, Island Hopping & Yacht Experiences
The Bay of Islands is one of New Zealand’s premier sailing destinations, and Russell is perfectly positioned to explore it.
With 144 islands scattered across calm, sheltered waters, sailing trips offer the chance to experience secluded beaches, marine reserves, and abundant wildlife. Many sailing charters include kayaking, snorkelling, swimming stops, and freshly prepared meals on board.
From relaxed day sailing to private yacht experiences, visitors can explore hidden coves and enjoy the subtropical scenery that makes the Bay of Islands world-famous.
Fishing Charters & Big Game Fishing
The waters surrounding Russell and the wider Bay of Islands are known as one of New Zealand’s top fishing destinations.
Fishing charters offer the chance to catch snapper, kingfish, and seasonal game fish such as marlin. The region’s deep-water reefs and offshore waters attract an abundance of marine life, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Local fishing charter operators provide all equipment, guidance, and local knowledge to ensure a memorable day on the water.
Visit Waitangi Treaty Grounds (Nearby Day Trip)
Just across the water from Russell via ferry to Paihia is the iconic Waitangi Treaty Grounds, one of New Zealand’s most important cultural and historic attractions.
Visitors can explore museums, cultural performances, carved meeting houses, guided tours, and the historic location where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840.
This experience is essential for understanding New Zealand’s history and is easily combined with a visit to Russell during a stay in the Bay of Islands in Northland.
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