Top Things to do in Russell
What to do and see in Russell, North Island: The Best Free Things to do
The seaside town of Russell is one of the most popular destinations in New Zealand’s Bay of Islands. The area teems with a mash-up of indigenous and European history, evident in its architecture and historic sites. Sail around the bay on a chartered yacht or iconic tall ship or explore the multiple personalities of The Gables 1847, which has served as a bakery, bordello and shelter for AWOL sailors on the lam.
Restaurants in Russell
1. Omata Estate
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 24 reviews
Reviewed By annepharm8 - Bridge of Allan, United Kingdom
A lovely relaxing place for an excellent platter lunch, good views, friendly and attentive staff and very good wines. Would highly recommend.
2. Christ Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 369 reviews
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.
Reviewed By 540robh - Kerikeri, New Zealand
One of New Zealand's oldest churches with an interesting history. Interesting walk through the graveyard as well, early settlers buried here.
3. Flagstaff Hill
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 473 reviews
Reviewed By lisa1984871 - Bendigo, Australia
Lovely walk from Russell and the hills got my muscles attention! Walk along foreshore at low tide or use the detour at high tide. Scenic tropical forest with fabulous 360 views from the top. Definitely worth the effort.
4. Newport Chocolates
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 116 reviews
Handcrafted Chocolates, made with 100% Swiss chocolate and infused with local New Zealand ingredients.
Reviewed By MargaretAnn2014 - Auckland, New Zealand
The chocolate experience will leave you wanting to return. We have returned here for the last 7 years since they opened their doors. Amazing chocolate drinks and of course individual chocolates and gift boxes. Photo of my teenage son to send to his siblings that couldn’t make the trip... ???? They are pricey but worth it... just try them ????
5. Just Imagine Gallery
6. Paroa Bay Winery- Villa Accommodation.
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 72 reviews
There are few places in the world where you get the sense of land emerging from the ocean — where you can trace the contours of the land down below the waterline, where sky, land and sea are continuous — and New Zealand’s Paroa Bay Winery and Estate is one of these places. Featuring three superb villas, a boutique vineyard, and our coastal-inspired restaurant Sage — we ensure every aspect of luxury is plentifully provided for. The first of our luxury villas, Tarāpunga, is named after the local seabirds, and nests high above the bay. With floor to ceiling windows and an infinity pool on an expansive outdoor entertaining area, Tarāpunga truly brings the incredible scenery to the fore. Our second villa, Weka, is a smaller but beautifully designed residence, and available for reservation concurrently with Tarāpunga. Our third villa, Vineyard Cottage, sits amongst the vines of our famed winery and enjoys views of the beautiful rolling green hills of both vineyard and native bush.
Reviewed By brizay - Singapore, Singapore
Last month I had the great fortune to stay at The Tarapunga villa at Paroa Bay winery. This is a luxurious accommodation, gorgeously furnished with stunning views of the Bay of islands from every corner of the house . The infinity pool invites you to jump in and stare at the view. The villa has a home cinema, tennis courts, a gym, Badminton, bicycles, Golf buggies which we used to admire the beautiful surrounding nature and manicured landscape of the winery and also to access the private beach. There is also an annexed villa that can accommodate another family or grown up kids. The place is perfect in every way(it even has, Sage, next door, the best restaurant in the area ). It’s a perfect Accommodation for a perfect holiday I had the time of my life. I highly recommend it.
7. South Sea Art
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 22 reviews
Reviewed By Scoblay - Auckland, New Zealand
Thank you Janet for helping us order our beautiful pieces from Lester Hill as a wonderful memory of our 10th wedding anniversary and of our time at the Duke and at Kororareka. We can't wait to receive it. Your shop is absolutely adored a with Lester's art. Thanks so much.
8. Oneroa Bay
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 97 reviews
Reviewed By Anglokiwi1 - London, United Kingdom
A short drive from Russell is the beautiful Oneroa Bay and Long Beach. A lovely sandy beach which we enjoyed strolling along.
9. Tapeka Point Track
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 25 reviews
Always check the website for changes that might affect your trip.
Reviewed By rodneys688 - North Wollongong, Australia
Well worth the short hike to the point. Amazing 360 degree views with water 320 degrees around. We decided to go back a 2nd time on the same day to have a little picnic and watch the sunset! Wow, so glad we did.
10. Bay of Islands Coastal Walkway - Okiato to Russell
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 10 reviews
Reviewed By CaneloLeche - Australia, null
Great coastal walk with lovely views. Parts rough and steep but well manageable. Depending on tide timea you can walk parts along the beach but the full track is accessible regardless. Look out for Terry as he has been maintaining the paths for years and is doing a fine job of it.
