About Russell
Set in the Bay of Islands, the town merges European and Maori histories, featuring many souvenir shops and some historic buildings.
Russell is now mostly a "bastion of cafés, gift shops and B&Bs". Pompallier Mission, the historic printery/tannery/storehouse of the early Roman Catholic missionaries, can also boast to be the oldest surviving industrial building in New Zealand, while the town also holds Christ Church, the country's oldest surviving Anglican church. The surrounding area also contains many expensive holiday homes, as well as New Zealand's most expensive rental accommodation, the Eagles Nest. The internationally acclaimed photographer Laurence Aberhart lives here.
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Hotels in Russell- explore rates & availability
The Duke Of Marlborough
★ ★ ★ ★
The 19th-century Duke Hotel is located on the waterfront, overlooking the stunning Bay of Islands. It features a guest lounge, restaurant and bar and garden bar, as well as a gymnasium. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
Situated in Russell town centre, The Duke of Marlborough is just 4 minutes walk from Russell Museum and the historic Pompallier House. Paihia is a 40-minute drive away.
The rooms feature modern decor with a traditional twist. Each room includes a refrigerator and a flatscreen TV. Some rooms offer a private balcony and bay views.
The Duke of Marlborough's restaurant offers a range of New Zealand favourites, including locally caught seafood. An extensive list of local wines is available at the waterfront House Bar.
Guests can relax in the cosy lounge, which features a fireplace. Local activities include dolphin watching, swimming and fishing. The hotel can arrange dry cleaning and luggage storage upon request. Read more...
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Looking for some interesting things to do in Russell? Here are some recommended attractions and sights for you.
tours, sightseeing & cruises
classes & workshops
Attractions in Russell
- Historic Center, Russell
- Pompallier Mission and Printery, Russell
- Flagstaff Hill Maiki Russell
- Russell Museum
- Long Beach, Russell




