Russell and Bay of Island Activities

Russell is the historic central hub for Bay of Islands outdoor activities: Boating, fishing, swimming, tramping, horse-riding or exploring the small settlements and remote bays and beaches.

Russell itself has a number of the oldest buildings in New Zealand and a very interesting museum as the original sealers and whalers' base in this country. It has a large Dept of Conservation activity centre with informative public displays and items for sale. Russell is a kiwi protection area and kiwi calls are often heard at night.

Russell is a well-established tourist centre with excellent cafes, restaurants and art and craft galleries. It is also a focal point of Maori history and culture both past and present. Well-stocked general stores are the first point of call for summer boating visitors to "the Bay".

The following links provide further information on some of these opportunities.

Walks and Tracks

• Walks and Tracks near Russell
  

  Russell is surrounded by wonderful nature and there are many opportunities to enjoy it for all levels of fitness and interest ranging from a casual stroll to a several day tramp or hike.

  Check out our detailed descriptions to enjoy the best of Russell's great walks and work up an appetite for Russell's great food. Happy days and bon appetit.

  Transport to and from walks may be arranged with Fernz, see Tours below.

Russell and the Bay of Islands

• Russell Kororareka
  The Russell Business Association website - contains a wealth of information for visitors.
• Russell and Bay of Islands
  Commercial Tourist Website - detailed information and links about Russell and the Bay of Islands area.
• Bay of Islands
  Enterprise Northland website - general information about the Bay of Islands area.
• Bay of Islands online directory
  Links to websites providing information and services for the Bay of Islands
• What's On in Russell - Coming Events
  Our local Russell Events Diary
• Bay of Islands Events
  More Bay of Islands and Russell Event Dates
• Regular Bay of Islands Events
  Annual Bay of Islands and Russell Events Month by Month

Tours and Cruises

• Fullers cruises
  Fullers operate a large booking office beside the Russell Wharf. They also operate local and regional bus tours.
• Kings and Dolphin cruises
  Kings now amalgamated with Fullers also operate cruise tours with pickup/dropoff at Russell Wharf.

Taxi/Pickup-Drop Off

• Kororareka Backpackers shuttle service
  Phone: 64 9 403 8494
  Email: korobp@xtra.co.nz

Health and Fitness

• Russell Medical Centre
  Well-equipped General Practice surgery adjacent to St Johns Ambulance service.
  16 Church Street, or behind St Johns Ambulance building beside tennis court from York Street.
  Ph: 09 403 7690
• Russell Pharmacy
  Well-stocked pharmacy near Russell Medical Centre.
  21 York Street.
  Ph: 09 403 7835
• Health Studio Group
  Yoga, Tai-Boe, pilates, physiotherapy, weight loss, lifestyle coaching, individual training. Russell classes.
• Russell Medical Aid Trust
  Supporting the Russell Medical Centre