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Russell

Russell wears its early colonial past in plain view. Old buildings line the waterfront, Christ Church stands with its graveyard, and Flagstaff Hill opens a view across the Bay of Islands.

Recommendations

Landmark

Opua Forest

Landmark4.7/5

Tapeka Point Beach

Culture4.7/5

Waitangi Treaty Grounds

Dive into New Zealand's history at Waitangi Treaty Grounds! Nestled in breathtaking landscapes, this iconic site is where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840. Explore the stunning meeting house, marvel at the giant waka (canoe), and soak up the local culture. Don’t miss the interactive exhibits—so much fun, you won't even realize you're learning!

Eat4.5/5

The Gables Osteria & Enoteca

Eat$$$4.5/5

GREEN'S Russell - INDIAN Cuisine

Cafe$$$4.5/5

The French Coffee House

Eat$$$4.7/5

The Boat Club Bistro

Cafe$$$4.5/5

Butterfish | Restaurant and Cafe

Eat$$4.5/5

Otehei Bay Restaurant

Stays

Stay$$$4.6/5

Hananui Lodge & Apartments

Surrounded by lovely gardens and situated on the waterfront, Hananui Lodge and Apartments features accommodation with free WiFi, a private balcony or patio and an LCD TV. Guests enjoy a free use of kayaks. Accommodation options include apartments located 20 metres from the waterfront and lodge rooms offering sea views. Each apartment, studio and suite offer a kitchenette with tea/coffee making facilities. Situated on the waterfront of Kororareka Bay, Hananui Lodge & Apartments Russell are only 3 minutes' walk from Russell Wharf, local shops, cafes and restaurants. Facilities include secure off-street parking, shared laundry.

Stay$$$$4.85/5

Eagles Nest

Eagles Nest in Russell offers family rooms with sea views, balconies, and private bathrooms. Each room includes air-conditioning, a kitchen, and modern amenities. Guests can relax in the spa and wellness centre, sauna, hot tub, and outdoor swimming pool. The lodge provides yoga classes, hiking, and cycling activities. Breakfast includes local specialities, juice, cheese, and fruits. Additional services include a bar, beauty treatments, and a tour desk. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. Tapeka Point Beach is a 15-minute walk away. The Bay of Islands Airport is 39 km from the lodge. Highly rated by guests for its excellent facilities and services.

Stay$4.1/5

Russell TOP 10 Holiday Park

Russell Top 10 Holiday Villas in Russell offers a lounge, shared kitchen, outdoor play area, and family rooms. Each villa includes a private bathroom, air-conditioning, and a patio. Guests enjoy free WiFi, a coffee machine, dining table, and outdoor furniture. Additional features include a microwave, TV, and a sofa. The property features a garden, outdoor seating area, picnic area, and barbecue facilities. Sea and garden views enhance the relaxing environment. Long Beach is a 12-minute walk away, and Bay of Islands Airport is 38 km distant. Activities such as fishing, hiking, and cycling are available nearby.

Stay$3.05/5

Aloha Seaview Resort Motel

Located in the Bay of Islands, Aloha Seaview Resort Motel is a quiet, family-friendly motel offering free Wi-Fi, a swimming pool and stunning sea views. Guests can also enjoy a hot tub and 2 BBQ areas. Set on 2 hectares, surrounded by native trees and landscaped gardens, the motel is only 700 metres to the beach and 1 km from the shops, cafes and restaurants in Paihia town centre. Facilities include a guest laundry, tour desk, children’s playground and a games room. Free car is provided. All self-contained apartments at Seaview Aloha Motel feature full kitchen facilities. Most also have sea views. All units offer a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Local activities at Aloha Seaview Resort Motel include horse riding, fishing and dolphin-watching cruises. The ferry to Russell departs from Paihia town centre.

Stay4.9/5

Ounuwhao Harding House

Stay4.5/5

Russell Cottages Collection - Russell Cottages, Bay of Islands

Stay4.4/5

Duke Of Marlborough Hotel

Things To Do
Provided by

5/5

12 h

Bay of Islands Paihia Small-Group 1-Way Day Tour from Auckland

Embark on a one way tour of Northland, a journey that can't be missed. Visit the breathtaking Bay of Islands, sites of cultural and environmental importance, and the majestic Tane Mahuta, the Lord of the Forest. This small group, fully guided day trip combines the best of both coasts of subtropical Northland. Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety. While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.

$203.04

5/5

Bay of Islands - Mini Tour: (75-90mins)

Discover the stunning beauty of the Bay of Islands on this scenic mini tour of the Bay of Islands from Paihia. Begin your journey by passing the iconic Stone Church and idyllic beaches before reaching the picturesque Opua Bay and Marina for some memorable photo opportunities. Continue to Haruru Waterfalls, where you can get up close to the cascading water. The tour concludes at Waitangi Lookout, offering breathtaking views of the bay. Perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. - Scenic tour starting from Paihia Town, including iconic landmarks - Capture beautiful moments at Opua Bay and Marina - Get close to the stunning Haruru Waterfalls - End with panoramic views at Waitangi Lookout Tour runs for 75-90 minutes, giving you a snapshot of the beautiful Bay of Islands. We also offer complimentary drop off to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds with a free shuttle dropping back into Paihia Town over peak periods.

$43.63

5/5

11 h

Waitangi Treaty Ground Day Trip Private Transport From Auckland

Travel comfortably with fully licensed New Zealand Transport Agency and Auckland Airport approved private passenger service business offering flexible scheduling around your Waitangi Treaty Grounds entry time. Enjoy a relaxed journey in a well-maintained vehicles with professional and friendly drivers who take care of every detail. As part of the New Zealand Service brand we are highly reviewed for reliability safety and personalised service — making this an easy stress-free choice for solo couples, families and small groups travellers seeking quality and comfort travel from Auckland to Waitangi Treaty Grounds and back with complete peace of mind. Part Of New Zealand Service Brand - Travel With Confidence

$465.42

5/5

5 h

Popular Cruiseship Tour - Total Kiwi Experience!

Discover the unique wildlife of NZ on this captivating tour. Begin your adventure by spotting the iconic Kiwi bird in its natural nocturnal habitat, offering a rare glimpse of this national treasure. This is the only tour in Northland, which offers siting of a Kiwi Bird. The center also showcasing different N.Z reptiles. Continue to the Whangarei Heritage Museum, where New Zealand's rich history and culture come alive through engaging exhibits. Marvel at the stunning Whangarei Falls, a magnificent 26.3-meter waterfall that creates a serene backdrop for your journey. Finish off at Waitangi lookout, breathtaking view of the Bay of Islands. - Spot the iconic Kiwi bird in its natural nocturnal habitat - Explore the Whangarei Heritage Museum showcasing N.Z's history - Marvel at the stunning 26.3-meter Whangarei Falls - Waitangi lookout, of beautiful views of the Bay of Islands. Perfect for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts ensuring an unforgettable experience.

$156.50

5/5

120 h

5Day/4Nights Northern Cultural Wonders

A five-day INDEPENDANT travel package departing Auckland daily offering the best the North Island. The tour includes the Bay of Islands with Hole in the Rock cruise and guided tours of Russell and Waitangi, returning to Auckland for one night prior to travelling through to Hobbiton Movie Set where a guided tour of this world renown attraction has been arranged for your enjoyment, travel onto Rotorua and its geothermal attractions, here you will enjoy a guide tour of the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley and its Living Maori Village. This attraction will also include a Haka Performance. On the final day visit the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves with a guided boat tour through the glowworm grotto before returning to Auckland central city. The tour includes 4 nights' accommodation

$1,221.73

5/5

Bay of Islands - Explorer Tour

Discover the stunning beauty of the Bay of Islands on this immersive adventure. Begin your journey in Paihia Town, then off exploring the enchanting Pukeiti Kauri Forest, where a boardwalk leads you through towering kauri trees. Marvel at the breathtaking Rainbow Falls, and enjoy a refreshing swim in the river below. Visit the historic Stone Store and Kemp House, the oldest buildings in New Zealand, learn about Manuka Honey & Bee's at the Bay of Islands Honey Shop and indulge in local treats at Makana Chocolate Factory. Conclude your day with panoramic views at Waitangi Lookout. - Explore the majestic Pukeiti Kauri Forest with a guided walk - Visit the spectacular Rainbow Falls and enjoy swimming opportunities - Discover New Zealand's oldest buildings at Kerikeri Mission Station - Treat & purchase yourself Manuka honey and handmade chocolates along the way

$139.04

5/5

2 h

Sundowner Sailing Cruise— 2 Hour Sail, Swim Stop | Bay of Islands

There's a special kind of evening that only happens on the water — the light going gold, the sail filling, the noise of the day dropping away behind you. The Sundowner Cruise is two hours of exactly that. Departing directly from Paihia beachfront at 5pm — the boat comes to you, pulling up to the beach so you step aboard from the shoreline — No hustle of a busy wharf, no waiting in line. We head off for our swim destination, the crew anchors in a sheltered bay for a swim stop — calm water, no crowds. From here you'll sail the inner Bay of Islands as the sun is going down. Just the sea breeze, the sound of wind in the sails, and a view that earns its reputation. A complimentary non-alcoholic drink is included. You'll be back in Paihia around 7pm, in plenty of time for dinner. This is a premium cruise with limited capacity — maximum 20 guests — which offers a fun and engaging experience where you actually get to feel like part of the crew, not lost in the crowd.

$57.60

5/5

6 h

Island Hopper- Sail to wildlife sanctuary - 6 hr - Bay of Islands

Most visitors see the Bay of Islands from a crowded deck. Our guests see it from the secret local spots that are not on the standard tourist circuit. The Island Hopper cruise takes you to a wildlife sanctuary island, by sail. It's a side of the Bay most tour boats never reach. Board straight from Paihia beachfront — the catamaran pulls up to the beach, kick off your shoes and you're on the water within minutes. As you sail, the crew will keep you entertained, and give you live commentary — coastline, history, the native wildlife that calls this special place home. At the island, the boat anchors for two hours where you can go ashore to swim, snorkel, paddleboard in the sheltered bay. Walk the native bush tracks through a working wildlife sanctuary. Take a packed picnic lunch to a spot of your choice. The sail home is where everything slows down, this is where the bliss factor kicks in, kick back relax. Or if you’re a keen sailor - help hoist the sails and join the crew at the helm

$142.54

4.9/5

30 mins

Scenic Tour - Bay of Islands, 30 mins (min2)

Awesome tour filled with gorgeous views, great photo opportunities and adrenaline packed thrills. A definite bucket list experience! Summer - bring a light sweater, sunglasses and camera Winter - bring a jacket and perhaps a beanie, sunglasses and camera Book direct for best pricing. All passengers including Cruise ship passengers to be outside I-Site (information centre) in Paihia 5 mins prior to departure time.

$75.05

4.9/5

1 h

Bay Combo Tour - 60 mins (min 2)

Have awesome thrills on a V8 350 Chev Trike with a 60 minute tour from Paihia. For those that love adrenaline, experience the sense of freedom with no helmets (full seatbelts) on this beast whilst enjoying the scenic Bay of Islands. Visit Opua - a marina seaside village, Haruru Falls, and Waitangi Lookout for some memorable moments and amazing views! A definite bucket list experience. Summer - bring a light sweater, sunglasses and camera Winter - bring a jacket and perhaps a beanie, sunglasses and camera Book direct for best pricing Cruise ship passengers need to catch the free shuttle bus into Paihia (approx 5 mins) and we are located beside the bus stop and the I- Site (information centre)

$136.72

4.9/5

13 h

Bay of Islands Heritage Experience from Auckland incl. Waitangi & Russell

Embark on a voyage to one of New Zealand’s most historic locations on this day trip from Auckland to the Bay of Islands on a luxurious private tour. Find the deep history - Nestled in the birthplace of New Zealand. Experience the spectacular scenery in an area rich in culture and traditions. Visit the most historic locations, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, enjoy a high-energy Māori cultural performance then take a ferry from Paihia to the first European settlement of Russell and take in the sights of Russell on an intimate coach tour.

$625.70

4.9/5

36 h

Bay of Islands 2-Day Small Group Tour from Auckland with Cruise

Experience the best of Northland with Cheeky Kiwi Travel on this fully guided Bay of Islands Small Group Overnight Tour, showcasing the region’s stunning scenery, rich Māori heritage, and coastal charm. Designed for flexibility, choose to have accommodation in Paihia included (single occupancy surcharge will be applicable to solo travelers) or book your own stay, the choice is yours. Travel in comfort with a small group and enjoy a relaxed pace, personal attention, and the chance to explore hidden gems that larger tours miss. Our passionate guides bring each stop to life with engaging stories, local insights, and a touch of Kiwi humour. Highlights include: a Bay of Islands Cruise to the world-famous Hole in the Rock, visits to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Waipoua Forest & Tāne Mahuta, and The Kauri Museum. Discover the very best of the Far North with a fun, flexible, and premium Cheeky Kiwi experience.

$424.12

4.8/5

4 h

Bay of Islands, Wine & Craft Beer Tour with Lunch

Bay of Islands Wine, Food & Craft Beer Experience Marsden Estate Winery & Vineyard Lunch Platter Your afternoon begins at Marsden Estate, one of Northland’s most celebrated wineries. Settle into the picturesque courtyard overlooking the lake and surrounding vines as you enjoy a guided wine tasting accompanied by a generous shared platter lunch featuring a selection of local flavours. Sovrano Estate Cellar Door Experience The journey continues to Sovrano Estate, one of Kerikeri’s most distinctive cellar door experiences. Founded by the Loggia family, whose roots trace back to Sicily and northern Italy, Sovrano brings authentic Italian character to the Bay of Islands. PhatHouse Brewing Co., Haruru Falls Your final stop offers a completely different atmosphere. PhatHouse Brewing Co. in nearby Haruru Falls is a relaxed, welcoming brewery where every beer is brewed on-site using natural ingredients and served unfiltered, unpasteurised and preservative free.

$127.99

4.8/5

120 h

5Day/4nights Ultimate Northern Discovery

A five-day INDEPENDANT travel package departing Auckland daily, taking in most of the key tourism destinations within the North Island of New Zealand. You will visit the Bay of Islands, with a tour of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the historic township of Russell, and a cruise to the famous 'Hole in the Rock'. Your day in Auckland includes a sightseeing tour of Auckland City. On day four travel to Rotorua, via Waitomo Glowworm Caves, with a guided tour of the glowworm grotto, on arrival in Rotorua a guided tour of Te Puia and a Maori Cultural Performance has been arranged. On your final day visit Hobbiton Movie Set for a guided tour on your return journey to Auckland. The tour includes four nights' accommodation.

$1,338.09

4.8/5

12 h

Waitangi Treaty Grounds Tour from Auckland

Step into the birthplace of modern New Zealand on this full-day group tour to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds - where history, culture, and nature unite in a powerful and memorable experience. It begins with a pickup from the 4 hotels listed in Auckland CBD, then a drive north through rolling countryside, past native bush and charming towns, toward the stunning Bay of Islands. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour of New Zealand’s most significant historic site, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840. Explore Te Kōngahu Museum, with its moving stories and interactive Treaty exhibits, and visit Te Rau Aroha Museum, which honours the military service and sacrifice of Māori. A traditional Māori cultural performance brings the experience to life through haka, song, and storytelling. You will also see Ngā Toki Matawhaorua, the world’s largest ceremonial waka. After this enriching journey into Aotearoa’s heritage, return to Auckland CBD with lasting insight into New Zealand’s identity.

$267.04

4.8/5

3 h 30 mins

Bay of Islands Scenic Tour

This a very comprehensive tour of the Bay of Islands area and we pack a lot into the 3+ hours. Visit the Waitangi area, Paihia, the Haruru Falls, Opua, and travel by vehicle ferry to the other side of the bay where we visit historic Russell, Long Beach, and enjoy fabulous views from the top of Flagstaff Hill. You will get a real feel for the Bay of Islands area. It's geography, history and our way of life. Benefit from an expert guide and a small group size. Extensive, detailed commentary, delivered with a dose of humor. Spectacular scenic views. Free time in Russell to enjoy a glass of wine or lunch. Passenger ferry return to Paihia included. Hotel pick-up from the Paihia area or Cruise ship wharf. Small group size limited to 11 people ensures a personalized experience

$63.41

4.8/5

4 h

Popular Tour - Bay of Islands: Nature Adventure - 4hrs

Explore the captivating Bay of Islands on a comprehensive 4-hour Nature Adventure tour. Beginning in Paihia, the journey leads to Haruru Waterfalls for an up-close experience, followed by a visit to the Kawiti Glow Worm Caves. Accompanied by local guides, enjoy a scenic walk among the twinkling glow worms. We then take you for a walk with ancient Kauri trees, some over 800 years old through beautiful scenic nature walk. We also finish off at Waitangi Lookout, showcasing the beautiful Bay of Islands. The itinerary also includes a visit to the artistic Hundertwasser Toilets, ensuring a unique blend of nature and culture. This tour guarantees a timely return to the ship or Paihia for shopping. - 4-hour guided tour starting from Paihia Town - Visit Haruru Waterfalls, Kawiti Glow Worm Caves, and Kauri Forest, Waitangi Lookout & Hundtertwasser Artistic Toilets. - For bigger groups get in touch, we can accommodate with several vans. *Note bring a warm jacket for the Glow worm caves*

$144.86

4.8/5

Māori Cultural Experience & Hāngī dinner incl. Day Admission

Our Hāngī & Concert experience offers an exceptional evening of authentic Māori culture, including an immersive live performance followed by a traditional hāngī dinner, cooked in an earth oven. Your Combo Pass includes daytime admission to Waitangi Treaty Grounds, valid for 2 consecutive days. Enjoy a guided tour, a cultural performance, entry to our 2 award-winning museums, Te Kōngahu Museum of Waitangi and Te Rau Aroha Museum of the Price of Citizenship, all heritage buildings, our on-site Whare Wake Cafe and, of course, our gift shop where you're sure to find the perfect souvenir to remember your trip to the beautiful Bay of Islands.

$115.77

4.7/5

2 h 30 mins

Haruru Waterfalls and Glow Worm Caves Tour

Explore the enchanting Kawiti Glow Worm Caves on this captivating tour from Paihia. Begin your journey with a scenic 30-minute drive, enriched by local insights from your guide. Once at the caves, embark on a 45-minute easy walk led by knowledgeable local guides, marveling at the mesmerizing glow worms illuminating the cavern. Continue the adventure at Haruru Waterfalls, where the impressive roar of cascading water awaits. Conclude your tour back in Paihia, where charming shops and eateries beckon for exploration. - Scenic drive from Paihia with local history and fun facts - 45-minute guided walk through the stunning Kawiti Glow Worm Caves - Visit Haruru Waterfalls and experience its thunderous roar - Pick up from Tender wharf for 9am tours for Cruiseship passengers. - Get in touch if you have a bigger group, we can accommodate over several vans. - Would recommend bringing a warm jacket, as caves can get cold.

$101.81

4.7/5

Unique Cultural Experience at Waitangi Treaty Grounds – Day Pass

Spend the day exploring the Waitangi Treaty Grounds while soaking up the scenery and story of New Zealand’s most important historic site. Your Waitangi Admission includes access to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, entry to Te Kōngahu Museum of Waitangi, Te Rau Aroha Museum of the Price of Citizenship, an immersive guided tour (50 minutes), authentic cultural performance (30 minutes), Waitangi – Birthplace of a Nation introductory film and full access to New Zealand’s most important historic site, featured icons, bush walks and the spectacular views of the Bay of Islands. Audio and written guide of Te Kōngahu Museum of Waitangi is available in English, Te Reo Māori, French, German, and Chinese.