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New Zealand > Northland
> Russell
 Russell's
beautifully preserved colonial architecture, pristine environment and lush
subtropical blooms makes the town a perfect setting for honeymoons, weddings
and romantic sojourns and is a haven for wanderers in ocean-going yachts,
sport fishing, artists and travellers seeking something unique.
Russell is a quick passenger ferry ride across the water from Paihia or can
be reached by road
by vehicle ferry from Opua. The township of Russell has over 150 businesses including
the fascinating Russell Museum, a general store, two supermarkets, the historic Duke of Marlborough Hotel, cafes,
restaurants and some amazing colonial homes.
 History
In the early nineteenth century Russell was known by it Maori name of
Kororareka.
It offered fresh food, water and the safest anchorage in the bay for sailing
ships and became an important stopover place for the early seafarers,
sealers and whalers.
Russell earned the reputation of being "The hell hole of the South Pacific."
as it became a substantial but unplanned European settlement. Commerce was
well established by the late 1830s with a strong trade in
rum and women for the visiting sailors and brawls, murder, abduction were
common without law enforcement.
 In
1840 the residents of Kororareka had hopes of it becoming New Zealand's
first capital, but by British decree, the town of Okaito located nearer Opua
was selected which at the time was called Russell. But politics as they were
selected Auckland as New Zealand's capital and in 1844.
In recent history, the town's Victorian atmosphere has been carefully
preserved, with many historic buildings dotted around the township.
Free Things to do
Take the walk up the hill to the Flagstaff Hill Historical Reserve
for some spectacular views over Russell, Paihia and out to the many islands.
Swimming in the harbour or go over to Long Beach (Oneroa Bay) which is
situated on the other side of the peninsula from Russell, this is a glorious
stretch of sand and better for swimming than the town beach. (A short drive,
or a half hour walk)
 A
visit to the 'Just Imagine' gallery is a must just to see the fine arts for
sale. There are fabulous paintings and while I was there, this life size
$35,000.00 multicoloured glass anchor.
Russell Museum - Displayed here is a scale model of Cook's Endeavour
and a small collection of items of historical interest. These include the
original subscription list for the Christ Church building appeal (1834) and
Colenso's own copy of his first printed placard (1836). The museum is a must
see for every visitor to the area. Exhibits date back to the first European
settlers and provide a fascinating look at early New Zealand and local
history. Located in York St. on the left as you arrive into Russell. Open
daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The museum is administered by the Russell Centennial
Trust Board.
Pompallier
House - A grandiose building back from the waterfront, this impressive building is
the oldest surviving Roman Catholic building in NZ. It was buit in 1841-42,
under the direction of architect Louis Perret, as the printery, tannery and
storehouse for the French Marist mission at Kororareka.
Construction was of pise de terre (a mixture of clay, mud and ash commonly
used in France) on the ground floor and pan
de bois (rammed earth panels in a kauri framework) on the upper floor. In
1856 the French sold the property to James Callaghan who used it as a
tannery until 1863. The building was later altered to become a private home
for over 70 years and then bought by the state and opened to the public as Pompallier House.
The building overlooks Russell harbour and is surrounded by an attractive
turn-of-the-century garden. It has undergone extensive award-winning
conservation and is now a working museum, where tanning, printing and
bookbinding can be seen. Entry fee $7.50 per person.
Waterfront - Boat and kayak hire on the waterfront for fishing or to
explore the bays and mangroves. Take a fishing charter, The hole in The Rock
Excursion and dolphin watch or just relax in one of the many cafes.
Getting there
Frequent ferries operate from Paihia across the
bay and the trip takes 20 minutes and there are also fast ferries.
Drive from Paihia or Whangarei via the Opua
car ferry.
For information on local walks, places to visit, DOC campsites, track
conditions, hut bookings, weather reports as well as a free audio-visual on
the history of the Bay of Islands and local natural history, the Department of Conservation's Russell Visitor Centre on the Strand at Russell
can help. Its open seven days a week from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm throughout the summer.
Ph 09 403 9005.
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