What to do in Russell

Activities, attractions and tours

Russell showing a coastal town and a bay or harbour
Russell which includes a bay or harbour, café lifestyle and a sunset
Russell which includes rocky coastline and a bay or harbour
Russell showing a coastal town, a bay or harbour and sailing
Russell showing a bay or harbour
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Top places to visit

1. Bay of Islands

Visit the stunning Bay of Islands on New Zealand’s North Island and enjoy the many water-based tours, from discovering uninhabited islands dotted around the cold, blue waters to watching dolphins leap around the boat. Enjoy the relaxed, friendly atmosphere in the bay’s towns or retreat to the ancient native forests to be at one with nature.
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Russell showing a bay or harbour and tranquil scenes

2. Russell Beach

Russell Beach is the hub of the town and a popular place to swim, relax and fish. Stroll along the main beach, which is also known as Kororareka, and survey the restaurants, cafés and lodges that line the adjoining walkway.
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Russell Beach showing a bay or harbour, a sandy beach and a coastal town

3. Flagstaff Hill

Flagstaff Hill, or Te Maiki in Māori, has been an important vantage point for centuries. It remains popular today for those same views and its historical significance. Enjoy the 360-degree vistas of the Bay of Islands and the Waitangi Treaty Grounds on the horizon.
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Flagstaff Hill showing a bay or harbour and a lake or waterhole

4. Russell Christ Church

Russell Christ Church is one of the oldest standing churches in New Zealand. Originally built by European settlers in the Bay of Islands, the historic building has been wonderfully restored and is fully operational. Attend a Sunday service here and admire the attractive interior.
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This charming and peaceful 19th-century church is a prominent historical landmark, while the surrounding cemetery is a good spot for a stroll.

5. Russell Museum

Inspect fascinating items, including traditional Māori weapons, whaling artefacts and large detailed models at Russell Museum. The small historical museum features an archive of more than 2,000 photographs as well as many captivating displays. See military artefacts from the Battle of Kororareka and other items from Russell’s early history.
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Russell Museum which includes street scenes

What to do in Russell

Popular places to visit

Russell Beach showing a bay or harbour, a sandy beach and a coastal town

Russell Beach

4.5/5(29 reviews)

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.

Russell Beach
Flagstaff Hill showing a bay or harbour and a lake or waterhole

Flagstaff Hill

4.5/5(10 reviews)

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.

Flagstaff Hill
Russell Christ Church

Russell Christ Church

4.5/5(12 reviews)

This charming and peaceful 19th-century church is a prominent historical landmark, while the surrounding cemetery is a good spot for a stroll.

Russell Christ Church
Russell Museum which includes street scenes

Russell Museum

4/5(5 reviews)

Learn about Russell’s Māori heritage and the history of European settlers through this vast collection of photographs, documents and other objects.

Russell Museum

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.

Tapeka Point Historic Reserve

Lookout

5/5(2 reviews)

You can find out about the history of Russell with a visit to Lookout. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the spas in the area.

Lookout

Pompallier Mission

You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Pompallier Mission during your trip to Russell. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

Pompallier Mission

Pompalier House

You can find out about the history of Russell with a stop at Pompalier House. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the spas in the area.

Pompalier House

Explore areas of Russell

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Te Wahapu

When in Te Wahapu, you can plan a visit to Paihia Beach and Russell Beach, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Te Wahapu

Frequently asked questions

Is Russell worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Russell is explore Action World. Check this top sight off your list, then discover more of the area's hiking and walking trails.
How do I spend a day in Russell?
Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway and Action World are two good places to kick-start your adventures. Remember to explore the retail and dining options in Russell while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Russell?
Don't leave without exploring Action World, rated the top tourist attraction in Russell.
Is three days enough to stay in Russell?
Three days is plenty for a short getaway in Russell — you'll hit the main sights and get a good feel for the local vibe. But if you want to really experience it all, book for at least a week or more to discover some hidden gems too.
Is Russell a walkable city?
With exciting neighbourhoods and major sights within walking distance of the city centre, Russell is a great destination to tour on foot. Have fun wandering between Action World and Waitangi Golf Club. Then take a stroll through Tapeka, located 2 kilometers from the centre, and Te Wahapu, which is about 3 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Russell with kids?
Deciding what to do in Russell with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're holidaying with little ones or teenagers, there's no shortage of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Russell for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Russell, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Hundertwasser Public Toilets.
Are there free things to do in Russell?
One of the easiest ways to find free things to do in Russell is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on interesting neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can enjoy without reaching for your wallet. Bay of Islands Marina is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.