Russell Wharf, Russell, Bay of Islands — Attraction in Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Community

Russell is really one place you have to visit in the Bay of Islands. Technically Russell was the capital of New Zealand for the shortest of periods before the capital moved to Auckland. Russell however has a history dating from several decades before the Treaty of Waitangi signed between the British Crown and the Maori Iwi in 1840. In fact Darwin famously described the place as the "Hell hole of the Pacific" due to the lawlessness of the whalers, pirates and sundry other rogues that found refuge here. One of the most impressive buildings here is the Duke of Marlborough Hotel dating from the 1840s and the nearby enormous ancient fig tree. There are plenty of places on the seafront to relax and enjoy the view. Behind Riussell on the other side of the peninsula in "one Mile Beach" - a popular place for sunbathing etc.

Russell csn be reached easily by ferry from Pahia and via the car ferry at Opua. Driving to Russell from the mainland is a tortuous affair even though it is not an island - use of the ferries is...

Russell is a cute, small town in the Bay of Islands, in New Zealand's far north. There are about eight hundred people living in this small city which has a few shops, cafes, small hotels/motels, a police station, schools, a few churches, and a health facility.

The area was a major Māori settlement dominated by several iwi groups before the European's visit. It became the first permanent European settlement, mercantile centre, and seaport in New Zealand. Originally Russel wharf was used for selling food to European ships but later it became a major hub for timber, whaling and sealing operations. Early history narrates that there was uncontrolled lawlessness in this place and fighting among tribes. Because of Russell's bad reputation, in 1840 Governor Hobson shifted the first capital of New Zealand to nearby Okiato.

Russell is easily reached from the mainland by a short car ferry trip from Opua or from Pahia town through the...

Russel warf is just 10-15 min ferry ride. Historical town with colonial history. Awesome beach front cafes and restaurants. You can take a walk on either side of next street and have good choices of food and drinks. Walking will see some old historical houses and just beautiful vibes. We went in weekdays without much crowd so had really good peaceful experience. Can also drive to Russel with Vehicles Ferry. $17 one way. Beach is good to for about 10 min drive from warf. Accommodations are available to rent in the area too with...