Top 9 Things to do in Russell, New Zealand

Pompallier Mission, where Catholic missionaries translated religious texts into Maori, printed and bound them into beautiful books, was a saintly enclave in the most sinful site of the southern seas. In what is undoubtedly one of the best heritage tours in the country, our passionate guides will take you through the steps of leather and book-making as it was done by courageous pioneers living in this tiny outpost, over 150 years ago. Hear the stories of the lives and times of French missionaries caught up in British Treaty-making and war between Maori and European settlers. Delight in our award winning heritage Gardens, take in the wonderful views across the Bay and browse our gift shop for a unique reminder of a special place.

Nau mai, haere and welcome to Christ Church, New Zealand's oldest existing church and cemetery. A digital walk can be downloaded from the App stores from Hikoi Tahi Walking Tours which share the fascinating stories of some of the people buried here. Enjoy visiting our cemetery and do visit our beautiful church.

The Russell Museum tells the story of the development of Russell / Kororareka, from a small Maori fishing village, to a port of call for visiting ships and whalers to today's tourist town. Among the museum collections is Maori taonga including a small waka (canoe), a one-fifth scale model of Captain Cook's Endeavour, an original whaleboat and mementos of game fisherman, Zane Grey. Enjoy watching the DVD of historic Russell and see the Exhibitions that are on display in the gallery. We hope you enjoy your visit. The Museum gift shop features a wide range of special gifts, souvenirs and books. The Russell Museum operates as a registered charity and does not receive any funding for operational expenses. The Museum is self funded by the entrance fee, research charges and profits from the Museum shop.

Nestled in a beautiful setting amid the hills of Paroa Bay near Russell, Paroa Bay Winery is a new family owned boutique vineyard combining luxury accommodation and traditional handmade, sustainable wines. We employ traditional techniques of viticulture and dry grown vines in the hope of creating distinctive handcrafted wines of character in low yields, reflecting the white clay soils and warm climate of the Bay of Islands. On an estate covering 24 hectares of rolling hills, we currently have just 4.5 hectares of planted vines including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Merlot. This private, world-class retreat offers a safe, clean, green refuge and is nestled amongst some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the world, including seven hectares of Gardens, lavish accommodation and extensive recreational facilities spanning along a sweeping coastline. Tarapunga is an exciting luxury residence, finished to the highest standard, which ensures every indulgence is catered for. Contemporary interiors and artwork, home theatre, gymnasium and gourmet kitchens provide in-home recreation, while outdoor the 17m infinity heated pool and spa, sauna and large entertaining decks capture the astounding views across the Bay of Islands. The vineyard cottage is a two bedroom / two bathroom (with additional optional bedroom) house set among the peaceful rolling hills of Paroa Bay and a 10 minute stroll to a 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. The newly refurbished cottage offers 2 full bathroom suites, a powder room, an open fireplace in the main lounge leading to covered terraces with a private swimming pool, hot tub, sauna and BBQ.

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