Maiki - Flagstaff Hill.
by worldkiwi
Maiki, or Flagstaff Hill, above Russell is where you can learn about the turbulent period of the mid 1800s. This is where local Maori showed their anger at the way the colonial adminstration was running things. They cut the flagpole down four times here. However, they later erected the present one as a sign of reconciliation. Take time to read the plaque - there's a fairly happy ending.
The walk up to the flagstaff is quite steep, so don't do it in the middle of a hot summer day without water in hand!
Dolphin and Whale watching with a Maori Welcome (P
by shiran_d
Kia Ora!
Be welcomed by a Maori Powhiri. Cruise through the inner islands and out to the Hole in the Rock along with Dolphin and Whale Watching. Full commentary on the history of the Bay of Islands. Hear Maori myths and legends of Tangaroa.
Historical Place
by nesba13
"Lots Of Sightseeing!!"
Russell is a small town in the Bay of Islands. You can take a ferry from Paihia. Russell has a lot of sights too see. Both historical and tourist. There is a main road that is runs right to left from the dock that the ferry arrives with many shops and small places to eat.
Russell - First Capital of New Zealand
by IcemanNZL
Russell was the first capital of New Zealand and one of the first European settlements. The town is surrounded in history, from the police station on the waterfront and other buildings to the Christ Church the oldest surviving church in the country.
Known as the "Hell-hole of the Pacific" the town began as the native village of Kororareka, the first Europeans were ship deserters and exconvicts from New South Wales after whaling ships began stopping here for provisions from the early 1800s.
Felton Mathew, the country's first Surveyor-General arrived with Captain Hobson and said the Kororareka was 'a vile hole, full of impudent, half-drunken people'. Soon after his arrival and the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840. Captain Hobson purchase about 124 hectares near Russell as a site for the country's captial.
The township was named 'Russell' and for nine months was New Zealands captial, before being moved to Auckland in early 1841.
Russell is definately a place to visit while in the Bay of Islands. It is 3km across the harbour from Paihia and will cost about NZD$5.00 for the ferry.
"Vigilant" Sailing Adventure
by Dodo22
"Vigilant"
I'm not sure if the "Vigilant" is still doing day trips, but when we went it was fantastic. If you enjoy sailing, then this trip is highly recommended. You are taken out around the Bay of Islands, leaving from Russell, and have the opportunity of sitting back and taking in the scenery or taking part in the action
"All hands on deck"
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cemetery & quaint little church
back street scene
French label on one of the old printing presses
1/5 scale model of Cook's Endeavour
