Title: Visit Russell: Best of Russell Tourism | Expedia Travel Guide - Expedia.ca [Hotels in Russell](https://expedia.ca/Russell-Hotels.d9659.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Vacation Rentals in Russell](https://expedia.ca/Russell-Vacation-Rentals.d9659.Travel-Guide-VacationRentals)[Flights to Russell](https://expedia.ca/Cheap-Flights-To-Russell.d9659.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Things to do in Russell](https://expedia.ca/Things-To-Do-In-Russell.d9659.Travel-Guide-Activities)[Russell Car Rentals](https://expedia.ca/Car-Rentals-In-Russell.d9659.Car-Rental-Guide)[Russell Vacation Packages](https://expedia.ca/Russell.d9659.Destination-Travel-Guides) # Russell ## Travel Guide ![Russell which includes a bay or harbour and a coastal town](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/179000/179008-North-Island.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Russell featuring a sunset, café scenes and general coastal views](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/179000/179477-Russell.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Russell featuring rugged coastline and a bay or harbour](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/178000/178980-Northlands.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Russell showing a coastal town, a bay or harbour and sailing](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/179000/179455-Russell.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Russell featuring a bay or harbour](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/179000/179270-Bay-Of-Islands.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ## Visit Russell Where to stay Things to do Reviews #### Discover colonial charm, a colourful history and picturesque oceanfront scenery when you visit New Zealand’s oldest town. Stroll through Russell’s charming narrow streets to find historic architecture, gift shops and relaxing oceanfront cafés. Visit some of New Zealand’s oldest buildings and discover the town’s history as a Maori settlement and European whaling port. Walk along the nearby cliffs for stunning sunset views before returning to the town for a dinner of locally caught fish in one of the town’s superb restaurants.  Russell, formerly Kororāreka, was first settled by European whalers in the early 19th century and is the oldest “pākehā” (European) town in New Zealand.It was once known as the “hell hole of the Pacific” due to the debaucherous antics of the whalers and seamen that settled here. Today, Russell’s charming colonial buildings, pleasant restaurants and peaceful ambience have given it a reputation for being one of the most desirable destinations in New Zealand.  Learn about the antics of the sailors and the early battles between the local Maori people and the European settlers that took place here when you visit Russell Museum. This intriguing museum also contains a scale model of Captain Cook’s ship, The Endeavour. If the town’s history interests you, visit New Zealand’s oldest industrial building, Pompallier House. This historic building was built in 1841 and contains an original printing press and tanner, both of which are still operational today. Nearby, you’ll find New Zealand’s oldest church, built in 1836.  Notice the pretty colonial architecture throughout the town as you wander along the streets. Find souvenirs in the gift shops or enjoy a coffee break in a café.  The best way to get to Russell is by ferry, as driving there requires a considerable detour. Take a short ferry trip from Paihia and keep an eye out for dolphins as you cross the water.  Russell is located in the Bay of Islands and has a mild year-round climate, making it a pleasant place to visit in any season. Indulge in luxury accommodation in peaceful and historic Russell or find budget lodgings across the water in Paihia. ### Where to stay in Russell ![Default Image](https://images.trvl-media.com/media/content/expus/graphics/deals/TE_Clouds_card_r1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Te Wahapu While Te Wahapu might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Paihia Beach and Russell Beach. [](https://expedia.ca/Russell-Te-Wahapu.dx553248635976384219) - Russell Hotel Deals - Vacation Rentals in Russell ![The Duke of Marlborough Hotel](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/2000000/1040000/1038100/1038082/52b2319c_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### The Duke of Marlborough Hotel 35 The Strand, Bay of Islands, Russell CA $111 CA $128 total Nov 10 - Nov 11 includes taxes & fees Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Russell. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ... 9/10 Wonderful! (841 reviews) "Wonderful stay" Reviewed on Sep 26, 2025 [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=10%2F11%2F2025&endDate=11%2F11%2F2025&selected=1038082&PinnedHotelID=1038082&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=9659) ![Russell - Orongo Bay Holiday Park](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/8000000/7070000/7060700/7060645/55ef07d9_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Russell - Orongo Bay Holiday Park 5960 Russell Road, Russell CA $70 CA $81 total Nov 10 - Nov 11 includes taxes & fees Stay at this 4-star eco-certified holiday park in Russell. Enjoy free parking, WiFi (surcharge), and an airport shuttle (surcharge). Popular attractions Bay ... 8/10 Very Good! (96 reviews) "This is such a lovely retreat, all credit to manager Kelly and her family. She went out of her way to make us feel welcome and it was much appreciated. The refurbished rooms were nice, clean and warm and the private shower was awesome. We had an awesome time and were lucky to see two kiwi on the ..." Reviewed on Sep 3, 2025 [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=10%2F11%2F2025&endDate=11%2F11%2F2025&selected=7060645&PinnedHotelID=7060645&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=9659) ![Eagles Nest](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/2000000/1210000/1207500/1207453/f636ddd3_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Eagles Nest 60 Tapeka Road, Bay of Islands, Russell Stay at this 5-star luxury lodge in Russell. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Bay of Islands and Flagstaff Hill are located ... 9.4/10 Exceptional! (6 reviews) "⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 – Exceptional Stay in Beautiful Bay of Islands! We recently spent four nights at this stunning property in Russell, New Zealand, and everything about our stay was absolutely perfect. From the moment we arrived, the service was outstanding—warm, welcoming, and attentive without being ..." Reviewed on May 13, 2025 [Get rates](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=26%2F10%2F2025&endDate=27%2F10%2F2025&selected=1207453&PinnedHotelID=1207453&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=9659) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=26%2F10%2F2025&endDate=27%2F10%2F2025&selected=1207453&PinnedHotelID=1207453&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=9659) [See all 497 properties in Russell](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience&startDate=13%2F10%2F2025&endDate=14%2F10%2F2025®ionId=9659) Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply. ![Beautiful & Unique - The Chapel at the Olive Grove](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/61000000/60540000/60534700/60534624/84f2d039_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Beautiful & Unique - The Chapel at the Olive Grove Russell Stay at this cottage in Russell. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Long Beach and Pompallier Mission are located ... Amazing place! "What a great find for us. It was exactly what we were looking for as we were visiting for a friend’s wedding. We would definitely highly recommend this place!" Reviewed on May 3, 2024 [](https://expedia.ca/Russell-Hotels-Beautiful-Unique-The-Chapel-At-The-Olive-Grove.h60534624.Hotel-Information) ![Self contained studio room with private entrance and stunning sea views](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/66000000/65410000/65400700/65400619/fb4689a8_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Self contained studio room with private entrance and stunning sea views Russell Stay at this apartment in Russell. Enjoy free WiFi, patios, and Netflix. Popular attractions Bay of Islands and Russell Beach are located nearby. 10/10 Exceptional! (57 reviews) Great stay "Lovely spot" Reviewed on Apr 23, 2025 [](https://expedia.ca/Russell-Hotels-Self-Contained-Studio-Room-With-Private-Entrance-And-Stunning-Sea-Views.h65400619.Hotel-Information) ![Beachfront Escape - Tapeka Beach Bach](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/29000000/28780000/28770500/28770402/0449672e_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150) ### Beachfront Escape - Tapeka Beach Bach Tapeka Point (Russell) Book a stay at this beach vacation home in Russell. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and a garden. Popular attractions Bay of Islands and Tapeka Point Historic ... 9.8/10 Exceptional! (32 reviews) "Fabulous location right on the beach with amazing views. Perfect place to relax and enjoy a break." Reviewed on Sep 22, 2025 [](https://expedia.ca/Russell-Hotels-Beachfront-Escape-Tapeka-Beach-Bach-It-Does-Not-Get-Better-Than-This.h28770402.Hotel-Information) [See all properties in Russell](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.DestinationExperience®ionId=9659&sort=VACATION_RENTAL) Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply. ## Check Russell hotel availability [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=9659&startDate=2025-10-12&endDate=2025-10-13) [Tonight](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=9659&startDate=2025-10-12&endDate=2025-10-13) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=9659&startDate=2025-10-12&endDate=2025-10-13) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=9659&startDate=2025-10-12&endDate=2025-10-13)[Oct 12 - Oct 13](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=9659&startDate=2025-10-12&endDate=2025-10-13) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=9659&startDate=2025-10-13&endDate=2025-10-14) [Tomorrow night](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=9659&startDate=2025-10-13&endDate=2025-10-14) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=9659&startDate=2025-10-13&endDate=2025-10-14) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=9659&startDate=2025-10-13&endDate=2025-10-14)[Oct 13 - Oct 14](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=9659&startDate=2025-10-13&endDate=2025-10-14) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=9659&startDate=17%2F10%2F2025&endDate=19%2F10%2F2025) [Next weekend](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=9659&startDate=17%2F10%2F2025&endDate=19%2F10%2F2025) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=9659&startDate=17%2F10%2F2025&endDate=19%2F10%2F2025) [](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=9659&startDate=17%2F10%2F2025&endDate=19%2F10%2F2025)[Oct 17 - Oct 19](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.DestinationExperience&adults=2&openPlayBack=true®ionId=9659&startDate=17%2F10%2F2025&endDate=19%2F10%2F2025) ### Popular places to visit ![Russell Beach showing a sandy beach, a coastal town and a bay or harbour](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/179000/179291-Bay-Of-Islands.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Russell Beach Wander along the jetty for wonderful views of Kororareka Bay, get out on the water in a boat and enjoy alfresco dining along the beachfront. [](https://expedia.ca/Russell-Beach-Russell.d6111726.Vacation-Attraction) ![Flagstaff Hill showing a bay or harbour and a lake or waterhole](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/236000/236033-Northlands.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Flagstaff Hill On this important hill, learn about New Zealand’s early Māori and colonial history, look for iconic birds and take in the stunning views of the Bay of Islands. [](https://expedia.ca/Flagstaff-Hill-Russell.d6111730.Vacation-Attraction) ![Russell Christ Church](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/179000/179268-Bay-Of-Islands.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Russell Christ Church This charming and peaceful 19th-century church is a prominent historical landmark, while the surrounding cemetery is a good spot for a stroll. [](https://expedia.ca/Russell-Christ-Church-Russell.d6111734.Vacation-Attraction) ![Russell Museum featuring street scenes](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/179000/179973-Russell-Museum.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Russell Museum Learn about Russell’s Māori heritage and the history of European settlers through this vast collection of photographs, documents and other objects. [](https://expedia.ca/Russell-Museum-Russell.d6111728.Vacation-Attraction) #### Lookout You can find out about the history of Russell when you stop by Lookout. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the spas in the area. [](https://expedia.ca/Lookout-Russell.d553248621526967336.Vacation-Attraction) #### Tapeka Point Historic Reserve Explore the great outdoors at Tapeka Point Historic Reserve, a lovely green space in Tapeka. Visit the area's spas or amble around its beautiful beaches. [](https://expedia.ca/Tapeka-Point-Historic-Reserve-Russell.d6111732.Vacation-Attraction) ### Things to do ![Paihia/Russell: Hole in the Rock & Bay of Islands Cruise](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/48137548/0002adaa-7a88-4069-b229-0718c92e3556.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### From Paihia: Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour: 3 Hour CA $109 per adult [](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/from-paihia-hole-in-the-rock-cruise-island-tour-3-hour.a48137548.activity-details) ![Guided Caves Tour](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/46127771/13353eba-590d-41f3-82ae-cacd712fd61a.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Glow Worm Caves Express Tour in Bay of Islands CA $125 per adult [](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/glow-worm-caves-express-tour-in-bay-of-islands.a46127771.activity-details) ![Bay of Islands: Full-Day Tall Ship Sailing Excursion](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/4853154/50e1cd94-a127-4015-ba18-cf821667655a.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Bay of Islands: Full-Day Tall Ship Sailing Excursion CA $144 per adult [](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/bay-of-islands-full-day-tall-ship-sailing-excursion.a4853154.activity-details) ![Bay of Islands: Awesome Day Sailing Tour with Island Stop](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/4769913/c4e98d5c-e27f-4322-82f2-8392d740c1d5.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Bay of Islands: Awesome Day Sailing Tour with Island Stop CA $141 per adult [](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/bay-of-islands-awesome-day-sailing-tour-with-island-stop.a4769913.activity-details) ![Bay of Islands: Parasail, Paihia and Russell](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/49301342/e5b92872-ac5e-4aee-919a-25f3e139060d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Bay of Islands: Parasail, Paihia and Russell CA $101 per adult [](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/bay-of-islands-parasail.a49301342.activity-details) ![Paihia: Glass Bottom Boat Tour to the Hole in the Rock](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/48106255/0fa7fed6-e29f-480c-bd27-37e91b35cc24.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Paihia: Glass Bottom Boat Tour to the Hole in the Rock CA $101 per adult **100%** of travellers recommend [](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/paihia-glass-bottom-boat-tour-to-the-hole-in-the-rock.a48106255.activity-details) [See all activities in Russell](https://expedia.ca/Things-To-Do-In-Russell.d9659.Travel-Guide-Activities) ## Reviews of Russell 4.8 Top destination 5 - Excellent 4 4 - Good 1 3 - Okay 0 2 - Disappointing 0 1 - Terrible 0 ### 5/5 - Excellent Verified traveller A wonderful place to locate and stop and smell the roses ## Cities near Russell ![Okiato featuring a bay or harbour](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/236000/236554-Okiato.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Okiato [](https://expedia.ca/Okiato.dx6052669) - Cities near Russell - Places of interest [Okiato](https://expedia.ca/Okiato.dx6052669) - [Russell Beach](https://expedia.ca/Russell-Beach-Russell.d6111726.Vacation-Attraction) - [Lookout](https://expedia.ca/Lookout-Russell.d553248621526967336.Vacation-Attraction) - [Russell Museum](https://expedia.ca/Russell-Museum-Russell.d6111728.Vacation-Attraction) - [Bay of Islands](https://expedia.ca/Bay-Of-Islands-Northland.d6024124.Vacation-Attraction) - [Paihia Wharf](https://expedia.ca/Paihia-Wharf-Paihia.d6291934.Vacation-Attraction) - [Haruru Falls](https://expedia.ca/Haruru-Falls-Haruru.d6272438.Vacation-Attraction) ![](https://a.travel-assets.com/mad-service/footer/bnaBanners/BEX_Footer.jpg) ## Go further with the Expedia app Save on select hotels and earn double points when you book on the app. Our app deals help you to save on trips so you can travel more and manage it all on the go. Scan the QR code with your device camera and download our app ![QR code to download the app](data:image/png;base64,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)