Russell

New Zealand's first European settlement and a charming historic waterfront town across the bay from Paihia, offering colonial architecture, museums, and excellent dining with bay views. It's accessible by a scenic passenger ferry and feels like stepping back in time.

Things to do

• Christ Church — New Zealand's oldest church, built in 1836 and featuring bullet holes from the 1845 Battle of Ohaeawai, offering insight into early colonial history.
• Russell Museum — Houses artifacts from the town's turbulent past as the original European settlement, including Maori taonga and colonial memorabilia.
• Pompallier Mission — A restored 1841 Catholic mission house offering guided tours that reveal the early missionary efforts and colonial-era printing press operations.
• Flagstaff Hill Walk — A scenic 30-minute loop walk offering panoramic views of the Bay of Islands and the site where the British flag was first raised in New Zealand.
• Ferry ride from Paihia — A charming 12-minute passenger ferry journey across the bay that provides stunning water views and a slower-paced introduction to Russell.
• Russell Wharf and Waterfront — The historic working waterfront lined with colonial buildings, cafes, and galleries, perfect for strolling and spotting local fishing boats and wildlife.

Food to try

• Fresh snapper and fish and chips — Russell's proximity to the Bay of Islands means excellent fresh catch sold at local fish shops and waterfront restaurants with bay views.
• Bay of Islands wine and craft beer tasting — The region produces distinctive wines and local craft beers that pair perfectly with meals at Russell's intimate dining establishments.
• Green-lipped mussels — A signature New Zealand delicacy farmed locally in the Bay of Islands, served fresh at waterfront restaurants and prepared with regional herbs.
• Maori hangi-inspired meals — Some local restaurants offer traditional earth-oven cooked meats and vegetables reflecting the area's indigenous food heritage.
• Horokaka (New Zealand crayfish) — When in season, local restaurants feature this premium crustacean sourced fresh from Bay of Islands waters and prepared simply to highlight its flavor.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the colonial and Maori history — Russell's sites relate directly to both European settlement and significant Maori events; approach museums and historical sites with awareness of this dual heritage.
• Check ferry times carefully — The passenger ferry from Paihia is the main access point; plan activities around published schedules as services are less frequent in winter months.
• Embrace the slower pace — Russell intentionally feels like a quieter step back in time with no supermarkets or fast food chains; expect limited evening dining and shopping compared to nearby Paihia.
• Greet locals warmly — This small community values genuine interaction; friendly conversation with shop owners, guides, and residents will enhance your experience and local recommendations.