Russell
Russell, the first capital of New Zealand is also a world-renowned game fishing port. Zane Grey famously described Bay of Islands as ‘an angler’s El Dorado’ when he caught his first marlin here in 1926. Tuna, broad bill, kingfish and shark are other potential game fish catches.
With waterfront restaurants and cafes that are the perfect place to catch the evening sun. Visit Zealand’s oldest licensed pub and Christ Church, New Zealand’s oldest church, which is still scarred with musket ball holes from the 1845 fighting. more
Pompallier Mission, the historic printery/tannery/storehouse of the early Roman Catholic missionaries, boasts to be the oldest surviving industrial building in New Zealand. The surrounding area also contains many expensive holiday homes, as well as New Zealand's most expensive rental accommodation.
A car ferry across the Bay of Islands runs between Okiato and Opua, and is the main tourist access to Russell.
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Attractions and Activities
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ARCADIA COTTAGE - Russell, Bay of Islands
ARCADIA COTTAGE - Russell, Bay of Islands
Mobile-friendly - Arcadia Cottage is a semi self-contained 2 bedroom cottage located steps away from the main lodge. The Cottage has a comfortable relaxed feel for up to 4 guests and includes a guest lounge, sunroom, nicely appointed bathroom and Super King & Queen Bedrooms. The lovely balcony overlooking the bay makes for the perfect spot to enjoy a meal.
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ARCADIA LODGE - Russell, Bay of Islands
ARCADIA LODGE - Russell, Bay of Islands
Mobile-friendly - History, charm, good food, glorious views—Arcadia is a Russell landmark, a historic, turn of the century home-style accommodation overlooking Russell's best kept secret: tranquil Matauwhi Bay. Drink in the view while enjoying our generous, healthy, cafe-style breakfast then explore Russell's heritage village and the amazing bay beyond. Come refresh and recharge with us.
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BAY OF ISLANDS HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION - Bay of Islands
BAY OF ISLANDS HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION - Bay of Islands
Mobile-friendly - Come to the beautiful Bay of Islands, one of New Zealand's most picturesque destinations. It attracts visitors from all over the world. We offer a full selection of accommodation styles that will suit most people and groups. We manage all aspects of your stay - a stress free experience for you.
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BAY OF ISLANDS KAYAKING - Paihia
BAY OF ISLANDS KAYAKING - Paihia
Mobile-friendly - Bay of Islands Kayaking offer boutique, guided Sea Kayaking Tours from our bases in Paihia and Otehei Bay. Our safe, personalised tours explore secluded beaches and caves and experience the beautiful scenery and cultural history the Bay of Islands is famous for. See dolphins and other marine life while enjoying this fun experience. Self-guided and multi-day tour options also available.
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BAY OF ISLANDS PARASAIL - Paihia and Russell
BAY OF ISLANDS PARASAIL - Paihia and Russell
Mobile-friendly - Parasail over the beautiful Bay of Islands with Bay Of Islands Parasail. New Zealand's highest and most experienced Parasailing at 1300ft of towline. Enjoy breathtaking views in our Single, Tandem and Triple flights. Suitable for everyone as NO physical or age restrictions. Great fun for families, couples or bigger groups. No getting wet unless you want to. CELEBRATING 20 years.
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BAY OF ISLANDS SAILING/GUNGHA II - Bay of Islands and Beyond
BAY OF ISLANDS SAILING/GUNGHA II - Bay of Islands and Beyond
Mobile-friendly - Awesome day sailing adventure on our 65 foot ocean going yacht GUNGHA II. Our cruise is exciting, funny and informal. Unique island stopover, snorkel gear and yummy fresh lunch included! We depart from Paihia (Russell transfers included). Freephone 0800478900 or text to 0274770354. November thru April - Bay of Islands. May thru October - Tonga, Fiji and Beyond.
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BLUE SEA FISHING - Paihia, Bay of Islands, Northland
BLUE SEA FISHING - Paihia, Bay of Islands, Northland
Northland fishing charters departing Paihia, Russell, Waitangi. Experienced skippers and crew that know all the great fishing spots in beautiful Bay of Islands. Operating 20+ years, catering for experienced or novice anglers wanting the joy of catching fish. Hapuka, Kingfish, Snapper plus others. Sir Graham Henry Winning World Cup Rugby All Blacks coach, and Lady Raewyn Henry fish with us.
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CLOUD 9 - Russell, Bay of Islands
CLOUD 9 - Russell, Bay of Islands
Mobile-friendly - Superbly appointed, private luxury four bedroom cedar home nestled in native bush overlooking historic Russell township. Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Bay of Islands. This luxury accommodation features spacious open-plan living, equipped and furnished to the highest standards and includes state-of-the-art entertainment systems, and extensive deck area with infinity pool and barbecue.
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DONKEY BAY INN - Russell
DONKEY BAY INN - Russell
Mobile-friendly - Operatic, artistic, iconoclast, sensual and enigmatic are just some of the words that have been used to describe Donkey Bay Inn. As you enter through the intriguing garden tunnel and come out into the inn's private courtyard, we are sure you'll find your own words for the unique and wonderful world of Donkey Bay. You'll never want to leave.
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EAGLES NEST - Bay of Islands
EAGLES NEST - Bay of Islands
Eagles Nest is a multi award-winning retreat, overlooking the stunning Bay of Islands. Just minutes from the historic romantic village of Russell and offering five spectacular and luxuriously appointed villas. Talented resident personal chefs are available to prepare cuisine featuring regional delicacies in true Pacific-style matched with New Zealand wines. Eagles Nest—somewhere between seven stars and heaven.
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GRAND CRU FISHING CHARTERS - Opua, Bay of Islands, Northland
GRAND CRU FISHING CHARTERS - Opua, Bay of Islands, Northland
Mobile-friendly - Come fishing on Grand Cru: specialising in big game or light tackle fishing charters. Or choose the Ultimate Package by staying on board Grand Cru at the end of each awesome day/s fishing. Available for charter for as many days/nights as you wish to experience. Let us know how we can provide you with the trip of your dreams.
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GREAT ESCAPE YACHT CHARTERS & SAILING SCHOOL - Bay of Islands
GREAT ESCAPE YACHT CHARTERS & SAILING SCHOOL - Bay of Islands
Mobile-friendly - Sail yourself sailing holidays. For experienced sailors, we have a fleet of well-maintained yachts, trailer-boats and power-boats you can hire. For less experienced sailors we can teach you to sail and handle the boats. Our most popular course is the six-day liveaboard adventure; three days with an instructor then three days cruising by yourselves in our beautiful Bay-of-Islands.
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MOTEL RUSSELL - Bay of Islands
MOTEL RUSSELL - Bay of Islands
Mobile-friendly - Set in an acre of subtropical gardens. The ideal place for a holiday to relax away from the city noises amidst the song of birds and the tranquillity of our gardens. We offer you a choice of 15 accommodation units: studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments. Motel Russell provides accommodation in the Bay Of Islands for families, couples, individuals and groups.
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NEW ZEALAND PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS - New Zealand
NEW ZEALAND PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS - New Zealand
Mobile-friendly - Join New Zealand's top landscape, nature and wildlife photographers to help you to get the most from your photography or visit to New Zealand. From 1-day Photography Workshops to 17-day NZ Photo Tours with New Zealand's leading landscape and wildlife photographers.
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NORTHLAND DIVE - Whangaruru
NORTHLAND DIVE - Whangaruru
World-class shore-based diving for open water divers through to tech divers, dive courses, gear hire, air fills & Nitrox fills, accommodation and meals all in a fun, social and relaxed atmosphere. Locations within the Bay of Islands: Hole in the Rock, Danger Rock, Canterbury Wreck or for advanced divers enjoy the Poor Knight Islands on our Liveaboard Sun Spy.
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PAROA BAY VINEYARD COTTAGE - Russell
PAROA BAY VINEYARD COTTAGE - Russell
The vineyard cottage is a two bedroom/two bathroom (with additional optional bedroom) house set among the peaceful rolling hills of Paroa Bay. 10-minute stroll to secluded beach. Visitors can enjoy strolls surrounded by acres of landscaped gardens, native trees, birds and vineyards and enjoy all the comforts of this first-class home. Private swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, and BBQ.
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R TUCKER THOMPSON DAY SAIL - Bay of Islands
R TUCKER THOMPSON DAY SAIL - Bay of Islands
Mobile-friendly - Experience the Bay of Islands as they did in Captain Cook's time and sail on board the tall ship R. Tucker Thompson. The perfect way for you explore the Bay of Islands in comfort and style. Be part of the crew for a day and help set the sails, or simply relax and let our friendly crew look after you.
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RUSSELL BOATHOUSE - Russell
RUSSELL BOATHOUSE - Russell
Mobile-friendly - The Boathouse is situated in historic Russell, in the Bay of Islands, overlooking the beach with beautiful sunsets and looking out over the Pohutukawas. Just a gentle stroll along the front of the beach to the wharf and cafes. The Boathouse is a three-bedroom family holiday home, offering self-contained accommodation. Kayaks and moorings available.
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RUSSELL MINI TOURS - Bay of Islands
RUSSELL MINI TOURS - Bay of Islands
Mobile-friendly - Romantic Russell - Steeped in history with a very chequered past. Spend a comfortable hour aboard our air conditioned Mini Coaches as we take you back in time telling you stories going back to the earliest settlers whilst visiting places of significant historical interest not easily covered on foot. Discover why Russell has played such an important role.
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RUSSELL-ORONGO BAY HOLIDAY PARK - Russell, Bay Of Islands
RUSSELL-ORONGO BAY HOLIDAY PARK - Russell, Bay Of Islands
Mobile-friendly - Make memories as nature intended. 55 species of bird. Close encounters with rare Weka & Kiwi. 4 Star Qualmark rated Holiday Park with affordable accommodation; Powered/unpowered sites, Self-Contained, Glamping, Teepee, Lodge for families on a budget or large groups. Pool, Playground, Kiwi trail. Explore the Bay of Islands and Cape Brett track. Close to Twin Coast Cycle tracks (Bike Hire).
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RUSSELL TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK - Russell, Bay Of Islands
RUSSELL TOP 10 HOLIDAY PARK - Russell, Bay Of Islands
Mobile-friendly - Enjoy the beautiful scenic drive to Russell or catch the ferry from nearby Opua. Located near the town centre of historic Russell, our award-winning holiday park offers a great accommodation base for your Bay of Islands holiday. A bed for every budget, from self-contained park villas, standard cabins, deluxe campervan sites, powered and unpowered sites. BBQ/Camp-kitchen. Children's playground. Free Wi-Fi.
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SAGE - Paroa Bay Vineyard, Russell, Bay of Islands
SAGE - Paroa Bay Vineyard, Russell, Bay of Islands
Just 15 minutes drive from Russell, Bay of Islands or set sail and anchor in Paroa Bay. We'll meet you on-shore, whisk you away for lunch or dinner. Experience our genuine passion for food and wine packed with multiple layers of flavours and aromas with our new Mediterranean menu. Luxury accommodation on-site for weddings, corporate functions, private dinners, cocktail parties.
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SHE'S A LADY YACHT CHARTERS - Paihia
SHE'S A LADY YACHT CHARTERS - Paihia
Mobile-friendly - She's A Lady Sailing Adventures offers a full day sailing trip in the beautiful Bay of Islands with a small personalised group. You can take the wheel and help out or just sit back and relax. Enjoy an island stopover with a healthy lunch at the beach, kayaking, hiking and swimming. Let's go sailing!
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SPOT-X FISHING CHARTER - Bay of Islands and Coromandel
SPOT-X FISHING CHARTER - Bay of Islands and Coromandel
Mobile-friendly - Experience the best Bay Fishing catching fresh fish for dinner in the beautiful Bay of Islands or in the Hauraki Gulf from the Scenic Coromandel west coast. Catch Kingfish, Snapper, John Dory, Trevally and the huge variety of species in the Bays. Or go on a Deep Sea Adventure targeting Marlin, Tuna, Hapuka or Swordfish.
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THE DUKE OF MARLBOROUGH - Bay of Islands
THE DUKE OF MARLBOROUGH - Bay of Islands
Mobile-friendly - A classically elegant hotel in Russell with superb dining and accommodation for travellers, wedding parties, coach tours or smaller, intimate conferences and gatherings. A beautiful environment in which to relax and unwind. One of New Zealand's most delightful areas.
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