Things to do in Russell

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Russell featuring a bay or harbor and a coastal town
Russell featuring cafe lifestyle, a sunset and a bay or harbor
Russell featuring rocky coastline and a bay or harbor
Russell showing sailing, a coastal town and a bay or harbor
Russell showing a bay or harbor

Russell Attractions

There's something rather charming about smaller cities. Whether you're on your way to Russell for a weekend or you're contemplating staying a bit longer, you'll easily fall in love with this destination. In fact, with so many wonderful things to do and awesome attractions to take in, you mightn't want to leave!

Explore the best sights in Russell with some unique tours & day trips, or check out our list of {25 fun activities in Russell fun activities in Russell}. We have no booking fees as well as free cancellation, so you can relax and put your energy into planning your dream vacation.

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Most popular activities in Russell

Tours & day trips

See all 24 activities
Bay of Islands Cruise & Island Tour - Snorkel, Hike,Swim,Wildlife

Bay of Islands Cruise & Island Tour - Snorkel, Hike,Swim,Wildlife

Activity duration is 4 hours and 30 minutes
Free cancellation available
Price is $94 per adult
Bay of Islands Cruise & Island Tour - Snorkel, Hike,Swim,WildlifeOpens in new tab

Water activities

See all 8 activities
From Paihia: Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island Stopover

From Paihia: Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island Stopover

Activity duration is 3 hours
9.0 out of 10 with 2 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $80 per adult
From Paihia: Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island StopoverOpens in new tab

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 5 activities
From Paihia: Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island Stopover

From Paihia: Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island Stopover

Activity duration is 3 hours
9.0 out of 10 with 2 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $80 per adult
From Paihia: Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island StopoverOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 4 activities
From Paihia: Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island Stopover

From Paihia: Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island Stopover

Activity duration is 3 hours
9.0 out of 10 with 2 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $80 per adult
From Paihia: Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island StopoverOpens in new tab

Wildlife & nature

See all 3 activities
From Paihia: Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island Stopover

From Paihia: Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island Stopover

Activity duration is 3 hours
9.0 out of 10 with 2 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $80 per adult
From Paihia: Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island StopoverOpens in new tab

What to do in Russell

Free Things to Do in Russell

Vacationing on a tight budget in Russell? Spend time instead of cash on great experiences.

Russell Christ Church - Whatever your religious leanings, this site will invoke a sense of reverence.

Russell Beach - Be on the lookout for tiny shells and other little treasures washed up along the foreshore here.

Flagstaff Hill - Get away from the big city and lose yourself in Mother Nature at this stunning attraction.

Things to Do in Russell with Kids

Russell is a great destination for a family break. Take the little ones along and enjoy these popular family friendly experiences together:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Russell? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Russell

Russell Beach featuring a bay or harbor, a coastal town and a sandy beach

Russell Beach

Wander along the jetty for wonderful views of Kororareka Bay, get out on the water in a boat and enjoy alfresco dining along the beachfront.

Russell Beach
Flagstaff Hill featuring a lake or waterhole and a bay or harbor

Flagstaff Hill

On this important hill, learn about New Zealand’s early Māori and colonial history, look for iconic birds and take in the stunning views of the Bay of Islands.

Flagstaff Hill
Russell Christ Church showing a church or cathedral and a cemetery

Russell Christ Church

This charming and peaceful 19th-century church is a prominent historical landmark, while the surrounding cemetery is a good spot for a stroll.

Russell Christ Church
Russell Museum featuring street scenes

Russell Museum

Learn about Russell’s Māori heritage and the history of European settlers through this vast collection of photographs, documents and other objects.

Russell Museum

Lookout

You can find out about the history of Russell when you stop by Lookout. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the spas in the area.

Lookout

Tapeka Point Historic Reserve

Explore the great outdoors at Tapeka Point Historic Reserve, a lovely green space in Tapeka. Visit the area's spas or amble around its beautiful beaches.

Tapeka Point Historic Reserve

Pompallier Mission

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Pompallier Mission during your trip to Russell. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

Pompallier Mission

Pompalier House

You can find out about the history of Russell with a trip to Pompalier House. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the spas in the area.

Pompalier House

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Russell

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Te Wahapu

While Te Wahapu might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Paihia Beach and Russell Christ Church.

Te Wahapu
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Russell

Okiato which includes a bay or harbor

Okiato

Cape Brett Lighthouse featuring rocky coastline and a bay or harbor

Rawhiti

Frequently asked questions

Is Russell worth visiting?
Offering a blend of hiking and walking trails, there are many things to do in Russell. While you're here, head to Action World, a must-see attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Russell?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway and Action World. Then, tour other parts of Russell for local dining and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Russell?
Action World is one of the top tourist attractions in Russell and should be high on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Russell?
Three days is enough for a quick getaway to Russell — you'll tick off the main spots and get a feel for the vibe of the place. But if you want to really experience it all, stick around for at least a week to discover some hidden gems too.
Is Russell a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Russell, like Action World and Waitangi Golf Club, are within walking distance. You can also discover several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Just 1 mile from the city center of Russell is Tapeka and Te Wahapu is 2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Russell with kids?
If you're searching for tours and attractions for all ages, we've got some fabulous ideas for what to do in Russell with kids.

What to do in Russell for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Russell, with experiences for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Hundertwasser Public Toilets.
Are there free things to do in Russell?
In Russell, Bay of Islands Marina is a popular spot for anyone wanting to experience the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, stroll around the parks and other neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a top way to explore the best free things to do in Russell.