Russell
Russell is a small historic seaside village surrounded on 3 sides by water. It is the site of one of the first European settlements. The town is rich in history with a variety of shops and services that do not spoil the old charm. Hours can be spent in the museum tracing the towns history from the first European settlers, whaling and marine history. Even the headstones at New Zealand’s first church have a story to tell. There is a great App based digital walk that you can download which tells the story of this delightful village that you can do before or after your sailing.
Getting to Russell by car involves a car ferry from Opua to the Russell peninsula or driving the scenic coastal route using the Old Russell Road approximately 20 minutes North of Whangarei.Coach services run direct from Auckland to Paihia ferry terminal and Russell is a short 20 minute passenger ferry across the water. By air, Kerikeri Bay of Islands Airport is 30 minutes by shuttle away from Paihia and then transfer to the passenger ferry. [/tab] [tab]The ship departs from Russell Wharf so boarding is at 0950. Many accommodation options are walking distance from the CBD. Parking is free although some spaces are short term parking; these are clearly marked. [/tab] [tab]There are plenty of restaurants and bars as well as 3 swimming beaches. Russell foreshore is stoney with plenty of boat traffic but good swimming; Long Beach is sandy and a great swimming beach with plenty of space. Tapeka has a small sandy beach and a rocky beach.
Places to stay include:
Aimeo Cottage – B&B at Okiato
Arcadia Lodge ~ History, charm, good food & glorious views
Bay of Islands Holiday Accommodation (holiday home rentals)
Duke of Marlborough Hotel ~ Russell Waterfront
Hananui Lodge on the waterfront
Motel Russell – Clean – comfortable and friendly
Paws for Thought ~ holiday home rentals
Property Matters ~ holiday accommodation rentals
Pukeko Cottage – not your average backpackers!
Pukematu Lodge – welcome to your home within the clouds
Russell Cottages – Luxury cottages
Seaport Village – holiday accommodation in the heart of historic Russell
