Title: 10 TOP Things to Do in Russell November 2025 | Expedia.co.uk [Russell Travel Guide](https://expedia.co.uk/Russell.dx9659)[Hotels in Russell](https://expedia.co.uk/Russell-Hotels.d9659.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Flights to Russell](https://expedia.co.uk/Cheap-Flights-To-Russell.d9659.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Russell Car Hire](https://expedia.co.uk/Compare-Cheap-Car-Hire-In-Russell.d9659.Car-Hire-Guide)[Russell Holidays](https://expedia.co.uk/Russell.d9659.Holidays-City-Breaks) # What to do in Russell ## Activities, attractions and tours ## Visit Russell Types of activities Where to stay [Russell travel guide](https://expedia.co.uk/Russell.dx9659) ![Russell showing a coastal town and a bay or harbour](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/179000/179008-North-Island.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Russell which includes a bay or harbour, café lifestyle and a sunset](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/179000/179477-Russell.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Russell which includes rocky coastline and a bay or harbour](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/178000/178980-Northlands.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Russell showing a coastal town, a bay or harbour and sailing](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/179000/179455-Russell.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Russell showing a bay or harbour](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/179000/179270-Bay-Of-Islands.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ## Russell Attractions Let Expedia help you to experience the best that Russell has to offer! If you’re planning a trip to Russell, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling to Russell with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes. #### Places of interest in Russell Russell is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay in Russell, and make it a breeze to explore Russell and the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in Russell to make sure that you enjoy your holiday to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind. If you’re planning a visit to Russell, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights in Russell. #### Russell attractions Russell has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions in Russell to keep you entertained. Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of Russell. Looking for things to do in Russell can be time-consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine of Russell or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to Russell attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season. Happy trails! * * * - ![find price illustration](https://a.travel-assets.com/travel-assets-manager/pictogram-bex/light__find_price.svg) ### Explore activities Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer. - ![calendar shield illustration](https://a.travel-assets.com/travel-assets-manager/pictogram-bex/light__calendar_shield.svg) ### Book with ease Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities. - ![trophy illustration](https://a.travel-assets.com/travel-assets-manager/pictogram-bex/light__trophy.svg) ### Treat yourself One Key members save % or more on select activities, hotels, cars and holiday rentals. [Learn about One Key](https://www.expedia.co.uk/welcome-one-key) * * * ## Top places to visit ### 1\. Bay of Islands Visit the stunning Bay of Islands on New Zealand’s North Island and enjoy the many water-based tours, from discovering uninhabited islands dotted around the cold, blue waters to watching dolphins leap around the boat. Enjoy the relaxed, friendly atmosphere in the bay’s towns or retreat to the ancient native forests to be at one with nature. [Learn more](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Bay-Of-Islands-Northland.d6024124.Attraction) ![Russell showing a bay or harbour and tranquil scenes](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/179000/179256-Bay-Of-Islands.jpg) ### 2\. Russell Beach Russell Beach is the hub of the town and a popular place to swim, relax and fish. Stroll along the main beach, which is also known as Kororareka, and survey the restaurants, cafés and lodges that line the adjoining walkway. [Learn more](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Russell-Beach-Russell.d6111726.Attraction) ![Russell Beach showing a bay or harbour, a sandy beach and a coastal town](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/179000/179291-Bay-Of-Islands.jpg) ### 3\. Flagstaff Hill Flagstaff Hill, or Te Maiki in Māori, has been an important vantage point for centuries. It remains popular today for those same views and its historical significance. Enjoy the 360-degree vistas of the Bay of Islands and the Waitangi Treaty Grounds on the horizon. [Learn more](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Flagstaff-Hill-Russell.d6111730.Attraction) ![Flagstaff Hill showing a bay or harbour and a lake or waterhole](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/236000/236033-Northlands.jpg) ### 4\. Russell Christ Church Russell Christ Church is one of the oldest standing churches in New Zealand. Originally built by European settlers in the Bay of Islands, the historic building has been wonderfully restored and is fully operational. Attend a Sunday service here and admire the attractive interior. [Learn more](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Russell-Christ-Church-Russell.d6111734.Attraction) ![This charming and peaceful 19th-century church is a prominent historical landmark, while the surrounding cemetery is a good spot for a stroll.](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/179000/179268-Bay-Of-Islands.jpg) ### 5\. Russell Museum Inspect fascinating items, including traditional Māori weapons, whaling artefacts and large detailed models at Russell Museum. The small historical museum features an archive of more than 2,000 photographs as well as many captivating displays. See military artefacts from the Battle of Kororareka and other items from Russell’s early history. [Learn more](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Russell-Museum-Russell.d6111728.Attraction) ![Russell Museum which includes street scenes](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/179000/179973-Russell-Museum.jpg) ![](https://forever.travel-assets.com/flex/flexmanager/images/2025/11/05/BEX-BF-25_FR-DE-MX-UK_1_Desktop.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1400&h=600&q=mediumHigh) ## Black Friday Sale Save up to 40% on select hotels. [Book now](https://expedia.co.uk/cheap-deals?rfrr=ACTIVITIES_BF_PROMO_9659) ## Recommended things to do in Russell | Number of things to do | 50 | | --- | --- | | Cheapest thing to do on Expedia | [Russell: 1-Hour Sightseeing Tour by Coach & Long Beach](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/russell-1-hour-sightseeing-tour-by-coach-long-beach.a45224869.activity-details): £16 | | Top 5 things to do | - [Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sundowner Sailing](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/bay-of-islands-tall-ship-sundowner-sailing.a44822610.activity-details) - [Ocean Adventure: Fast Boat to the Hole in the Rock](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/ocean-adventure-fast-boat-to-the-hole-in-the-rock.a49041618.activity-details) - [Glow Worm Caves Express Tour in Bay of Islands](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/glow-worm-caves-and-waterfall-in-bay-of-islands-express-tour.a46127771.activity-details) - [Scenic Tour - Bay of Islands, 30 mins (min2)](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/scenic-tour-bay-of-islands-30-mins-min2.a45275075.activity-details) - [Waitangi Treaty Grounds Admission](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/waitangi-treaty-grounds-experience-pass.a1395520.activity-details) | | Half-day tours | - [Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sundowner Sailing](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/bay-of-islands-tall-ship-sundowner-sailing.a44822610.activity-details) - [Ocean Adventure: Fast Boat to the Hole in the Rock](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/ocean-adventure-fast-boat-to-the-hole-in-the-rock.a49041618.activity-details) - [Glow Worm Caves Express Tour in Bay of Islands](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/glow-worm-caves-and-waterfall-in-bay-of-islands-express-tour.a46127771.activity-details) - [From Paihia: Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour: 3 Hour](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/paihia-russell-hole-in-the-rock-bay-of-islands-cruise.a48137548.activity-details) - [Hole in the Rock Tour & Bay of Islands Cruise](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/hole-in-the-rock-tour-bay-of-islands-cruise.a48410498.activity-details) | | With kids | - [Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sundowner Sailing](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/bay-of-islands-tall-ship-sundowner-sailing.a44822610.activity-details) - [Ocean Adventure: Fast Boat to the Hole in the Rock](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/ocean-adventure-fast-boat-to-the-hole-in-the-rock.a49041618.activity-details) - [Glow Worm Caves Express Tour in Bay of Islands](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/glow-worm-caves-and-waterfall-in-bay-of-islands-express-tour.a46127771.activity-details) - [Scenic Tour - Bay of Islands, 30 mins (min2)](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/scenic-tour-bay-of-islands-30-mins-min2.a45275075.activity-details) - [Waitangi Treaty Grounds Admission](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/waitangi-treaty-grounds-experience-pass.a1395520.activity-details) | ## What to do in Russell * * * ### Popular places to visit ![Russell Beach showing a bay or harbour, a sandy beach and a coastal town](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/179000/179291-Bay-Of-Islands.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Russell Beach 4.5/5(29 reviews) 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. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Russell-Beach-Russell.d6111726.Attraction) ![Flagstaff Hill showing a bay or harbour and a lake or waterhole](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/236000/236033-Northlands.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Flagstaff Hill 4.5/5(10 reviews) 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. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Flagstaff-Hill-Russell.d6111730.Attraction) ![Russell Christ Church](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/179000/179268-Bay-Of-Islands.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Russell Christ Church 4.5/5(12 reviews) This charming and peaceful 19th-century church is a prominent historical landmark, while the surrounding cemetery is a good spot for a stroll. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Russell-Christ-Church-Russell.d6111734.Attraction) ![Russell Museum which includes street scenes](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/179000/179973-Russell-Museum.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Russell Museum 4/5(5 reviews) Learn about Russell’s Māori heritage and the history of European settlers through this vast collection of photographs, documents and other objects. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Russell-Museum-Russell.d6111728.Attraction) #### 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. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Tapeka-Point-Historic-Reserve-Russell.d6111732.Attraction) #### Lookout 5/5(2 reviews) You can find out about the history of Russell with a visit to Lookout. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the spas in the area. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Lookout-Russell.d553248621526967336.Attraction) #### Pompallier Mission You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Pompallier Mission during your trip to Russell. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Pompallier-Mission-Russell.d553248635998026997.Attraction) #### Pompalier House You can find out about the history of Russell with a stop at Pompalier House. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or visit the spas in the area. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Pompalier-House-Russell.d553248621532610716.Attraction) ### Explore areas of Russell ![Default Image](https://images.trvl-media.com/media/content/expus/graphics/deals/TE_Clouds_card_r1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=350&h=192&q=medium) ### Te Wahapu When in Te Wahapu, you can plan a visit to Paihia Beach and Russell Beach, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Russell-Te-Wahapu.dx553248635976384219) * * * Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check [things to do near me](https://www.expedia.co.uk/things-to-do-near-me) to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be. * * * ## Day trip destinations from Russell ![Okiato showing a bay or harbour](https://a.travel-assets.com/findyours-php/viewfinder/images/res70/236000/236554-Okiato.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=512&h=288&q=medium) ### Okiato [](https://expedia.co.uk/Okiato.dx6052669) ## Frequently asked questions ### Is Russell worth visiting? > One of the most common things to do in Russell is explore Action World. Check this top sight off your list, then discover more of the area's hiking and walking trails. ### How do I spend a day in Russell? > Bay Of Islands Vintage Railway and Action World are two good places to kick-start your adventures. Remember to explore the retail and dining options in Russell while you're here too. ### What is the top tourist attraction in Russell? > Don't leave without exploring Action World, rated the top tourist attraction in Russell. ### Is three days enough to stay in Russell? > Three days is plenty for a short getaway in Russell — you'll hit the main sights and get a good feel for the local vibe. But if you want to really experience it all, book for at least a week or more to discover some hidden gems too. ### Is Russell a walkable city? > With exciting neighbourhoods and major sights within walking distance of the city centre, Russell is a great destination to tour on foot. Have fun wandering between Action World and Waitangi Golf Club. Then take a stroll through Tapeka, located 2 kms (1 mile) from the centre, and Te Wahapu, which is about 3 kms (2 miles) away. ### What are some activities to do in Russell with kids? > Deciding what to do in Russell with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're holidaying with little ones or teenagers, there's no shortage of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep everyone busy here. > > > > - [Bay of Islands Tall Ship Sundowner Sailing](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/bay-of-islands-tall-ship-sundowner-sailing.a44822610.activity-details) > - [Ocean Adventure: Fast Boat to the Hole in the Rock](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/ocean-adventure-fast-boat-to-the-hole-in-the-rock.a49041618.activity-details) > - [Glow Worm Caves Express Tour in Bay of Islands](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/glow-worm-caves-and-waterfall-in-bay-of-islands-express-tour.a46127771.activity-details) > - [Scenic Tour - Bay of Islands, 30 mins (min2)](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/scenic-tour-bay-of-islands-30-mins-min2.a45275075.activity-details) > - [Waitangi Treaty Grounds Admission](https://expedia.co.uk/things-to-do/waitangi-treaty-grounds-experience-pass.a1395520.activity-details) ### What to do in Russell for adults? > There are plenty of things to do in Russell, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Hundertwasser Public Toilets. ### Are there free things to do in Russell? > One of the easiest ways to find free things to do in Russell is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on interesting neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can enjoy without reaching for your wallet. Bay of Islands Marina is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee. ![](https://a.travel-assets.com/mad-service/footer/bnaBanners/BEX_Footer.jpg) ## Go further with the Expedia app Save on select hotels when you book in the app. Our app deals help you to save on trips so you can travel more and manage it all on the go. Scan the QR code with your device camera and download our app ![QR code to download the app](data:image/png;base64,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)