Discover Russell
Points of Interest
- Harbour, Islands & Hole in the Rock
- Paihia and Surrounds
Description
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Russell
Perched on a narrow peninsula on the southeastern shore of the Bay of Islands, the Maori village once known as Kororareka changed forever when Captain Cook sailed into its harbor in 1789. Colonists and missionaries followed and by 1840, it was the country's largest settlement and New Zealand's first capital. Renamed Russell in 1844 in honor of Lord John Russell, the British Colonial Secretary of State for the colonies, the town's streets have retained their original layout and 19th century names, and many of its historic buildings can still be visited today.
Pompallier Mission Printery
Built in 1841, New Zealand's oldest Roman Catholic building once served as the headquarters to the French Catholic mission and named after Jean-Baptiste François Pompallier, New Zealand's first Roman Catholic bishop. Built between 1842 and 1849 it printed over 30,000 books including religious texts translated into Maori and then printed and bound into beautiful books.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Russell's seaside setting and picturesque buildings are ideal photo subjects such as New Zealand's first licensed hotel, bar and restaurant, The Duke of Marlborough located on the waterfront.
REFRESHMENTS
Following your guided tour you'll be treated to a tasty scone and tea.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Enjoy the sea breezes as you cruise across the bay from Paihia to Russell.
Special Notes:
This is a walking tour and involves approx. 1km walking on flat surface. Guests must be able to get on and off the transfer vessel unaided. Not suitable for guests with limited mobility.Details
Tour timeline may vary to avoid overcrowding, etc.
Depart Waitangi for Russell
- Transport type:
- Motorcoach
- Travel time:
- 00:30
Depart Waitangi for Russell
- Transport type:
- Motorcoach
- Travel time:
- 00:30
Guided tour of historic Russell
- Time at site:
- 01:00
Guided tour of historic Russell
- Time at site:
- 01:00
Morning tea in Clendon Cottage
- Time at site:
- 00:20
Morning tea in Clendon Cottage
- Time at site:
- 00:20
Guided tour of Pompallier Mission Printery and tannery
- Time at site:
- 00:40
Guided tour of Pompallier Mission Printery and tannery
- Time at site:
- 00:40
Free time in Russell. Artisan shops and russell craft market
- Time at site:
- 00:45
Free time in Russell. Artisan shops and russell craft market
- Time at site:
- 00:45
Ferry to Paihia
- Transport type:
- Motorized Vessel
- Travel time:
- 00:15
Ferry to Paihia
- Transport type:
- Motorized Vessel
- Travel time:
- 00:15