Russell Travel Guide

Plan your next trip to Russell, New Zealand with this comprehensive tour guide that includes information on places to visit, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety and health, getting there, and more.


Introduction to Russell

Russell, located in the Bay of Islands in Northland, is a charming town known for its rich history, beautiful natural attractions, and excellent food and drink scene. Once a bustling whaling town, Russell is now a popular tourist destination that offers something for everyone.

In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll cover all the must-visit places, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions in Russell. We’ll also explore the town’s food and drink scene, accommodations, local customs, and safety tips. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to Russell.

List of Places to Visit in Russell

Here are some of the top attractions to visit in Russell:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Russell Museum: This museum offers an excellent introduction to the town’s history, including its Maori and European heritage. It also showcases artifacts from the region’s whaling and maritime industries.

  2. Pompallier Mission and Printery: This former Catholic mission houses an impressive collection of books printed in Maori language. Visitors can also see how the missionaries lived and worked in the 19th century.

  3. Christ Church: One of the oldest surviving churches in New Zealand, Christ Church dates back to the early 19th century. It features a beautiful stained glass window and a peaceful cemetery surrounded by stunning views.

Natural Attractions of Russell: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Flagstaff Hill: A short hike uphill from town offers panoramic views of the Bay of Islands and Russell. At the summit, visitors can see the flagstaff that caused conflicts between Maori and British soldiers in the 19th century.

  2. Waitangi Treaty Grounds: Located a short drive from Russell, this historic site marks the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi between Maori chiefs and the British crown in 1840. It offers a fascinating insight into the country’s colonial history.

  3. Bay of Islands: Whether you rent a kayak, board a fishing charter, or take a sightseeing cruise, exploring the Bay of Islands is a must. This spectacular marine park features over 144 islands and is home to dolphins, whales, and other marine wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Russell

Russell is a great place to lace up your hiking boots or rent a bike. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  1. Flagstaff Hill: As mentioned earlier, this short but steep walk offers stunning views of Russell and the bay.

  2. Russell to Omata: This scenic walk or bike ride, which takes you to the eastern end of Russell, offers lovely views of the beach, the inlet, and the Moturua Island.

  3. Cape Brett Track: A more challenging hike, this track takes you to the Cape Brett Lighthouse. It offers breathtaking views of the bay, the ocean, and the surrounding islands.

Best Things to Do in Russell: Activities and Tours

Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the town’s history, or enjoy outdoor adventures, Russell has it all. Here are some of the best things to do in Russell:

  1. Go fishing: The Bay of Islands is one of the best places in New Zealand to go fishing, whether it’s for snapper, kingfish, or marlin.

  2. Swim with the dolphins: Several tour operators offer the opportunity to swim or watch dolphins in their natural habitat.

  3. Relax on the beach: Russell has several beautiful sandy beaches, including Long Beach and Oneroa Beach.

Week-Long Itinerary for Russell

If you’re planning to spend a week in Russell, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day 1-2: Explore Russell’s historical attractions, including the museum, the mission, and Christ Church.

Day 3-4: Take a sightseeing cruise, go fishing, or swim with the dolphins in the Bay of Islands.

Day 5-6: Go hiking or biking on one of Russell’s scenic trails, such as Flagstaff Hill or Cape Brett Track.

Day 7: Relax on the beach or explore the town’s food and drink scene.

Food and Drink Scene of Russell

Russell is known for its excellent food and drink scene, with plenty of options to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Fish and Chips: This classic Kiwi dish is always a winner, especially when paired with a cold beer.

  2. Green-lipped mussels: These giant mussels, found only in New Zealand, are a delicacy. You can find them in most seafood restaurants in Russell.

  3. Kumara fries: These sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to regular fries and are a popular snack in the area.

Local Beverages

  1. Craft beer: New Zealand is famous for its craft beer scene, and Russell has several excellent microbreweries, including the Longboard Brewery and the Sail Rock Brewing Co.

  2. Wine: Northland is also famous for its wine, especially its Chardonnay. The Marsden Estate and the Omata Estate are both popular wineries in the area.

Where to Stay in Russell: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Russell has plenty of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxurious hotels and resorts to budget-friendly backpackers and hostels. Here are some of the best options:

  1. The Duke of Marlborough Hotel: This historic hotel is located on the waterfront and offers excellent dining and entertainment options.

  2. Russell Top 10 Holiday Park: This budget-friendly option offers a range of accommodation types, including powered and unpowered campsites, cabins, and apartments.

  3. Empire Hotel: This centrally located hotel offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant and bar.

What to Buy in Russell: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring home, here are some of the best options:

  1. Pounamu (Greenstone): This traditional Maori stone is a popular souvenir and can be found in several shops in Russell.

  2. Manuka honey: This honey, made from the manuka bush, is famous for its antibacterial properties and is a popular product in New Zealand.

  3. Paua shell: These colorful shells, found only in New Zealand, are used to make jewelry and souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Russell

The Maori culture is an important part of the Northland region, and visitors should take some time to learn about their traditions and customs. Visitors should also be respectful of local customs and practices, such as removing shoes before entering a house.

Best Time to Visit Russell

Russell is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. The summer months (December to February) are the busiest and offer warm weather, plenty of outdoor activities, and a lively atmosphere. The autumn (March to May) is an excellent time to explore the local wineries and enjoy the stunning fall foliage. The winter (June to August) is the quietest but offers lower prices and fewer crowds. The spring (September to November) is an excellent time to see wildflowers and enjoy mild temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Russell

Do:

  • Do take the time to learn about the Maori culture and customs.
  • Do respect the locals and their property.
  • Do take care of the environment and wildlife.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t ignore warning signs or recommendations from locals.
  • Don’t disrespect the local culture or traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Russell

Russell is a safe town for visitors, but as with any travel destination, visitors should take some precautions, such as securing valuables and locking doors and windows.

Health in Russell

Russell is a relatively small town and may not have specialist medical facilities. Visitors should ensure they have adequate travel insurance and carry any necessary medication with them.

Getting to Russell: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Russell

The closest international airport to Russell is Auckland International Airport, which is approximately 3-4 hours’ drive away. Several domestic airports are also located nearby, including Kerikeri Airport and Whangarei Airport.

Bus Stations Near Russell

InterCity buses and local buses operate in Northland, with several stops in Russell and the surrounding area.

Other Options

Several tour operators offer transfers and tours from Auckland to Russell and the Bay of Islands. Taxis and rental cars are also available in Russell.

How to Get Around in Russell

Russell is a small town and is easy to explore on foot. Several bicycle rental services are also available in town.

Where to Go Next from Russell: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time in Northland, here are some nearby destinations worth exploring:

  1. Cape Reinga: Located at the northern tip of New Zealand, Cape Reinga offers stunning views and a chance to see where the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean meet.

  2. Whangarei: Located south of Russell, Whangarei is Northland’s largest city and offers plenty of shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.

  3. Paihia: Just a short ferry ride from Russell, Paihia is another charming town located in the Bay of Islands. It offers several water-based activities and tours, including swimming with the dolphins and exploring the islands.

Conclusion

Russell, New Zealand, is a must-visit destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and excellent food and drink. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, there’s plenty to see and do in Russell. Use this comprehensive tour guide to plan your next trip to this beautiful town and make unforgettable memories.

Duke of Marlborough Hotel Duke of Marlborough Hotel