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Hugging the shoreline, on a small peninsula in the Bay, Russell has an almost island-like, feel. As you wander the streets, the carefully preserved buildings and landmarks will take you back to another place in time. Slow down, savour the past and indulge in all that Russell has to offer.
Also known as Kororareka, legend tells that Russell's first name originated from a Maori chief wounded in battle. Given a broth made from the little blue penguin, he was believed to have said 'Ka reka te korora - how sweet is penguin'. Today, little blue penguins still come ashore after dark to nest under the floorboards of waterfront buildings.
Russells current tranquil setting, however, belies its colourful past! During the early trading days of the 19th century, Russell became a destination providing shore leave for sailors, whalers and traders working the southern oceans. During those years, the town developed a reputation as 'the hell hole of the Pacific'. Todays Russell, sets a very different scene.
Take the time to walk to the top of Te Maiki, Flagstaff Hill, the site of Hone Hekes repeated felling of the flagstaff between 1844 and 1846 as a rejection of the British flag, the Union Jack, raised above the town. The view from the top is unsurpassed. From here you can look out across the entire bay and back down to Russell.
A walk along the waterfront and out along the wharf, takes you past historic buildings such as the Duke of Marlborough hotel, the Victorian Gothic Customhouse (now our Police Station) and beautiful Pompallier, the site of the first Roman Catholic Mission to New Zealand. Established in 1842 and now restored, a visit to Pompallier will give you valuable insight into the early days of leather making, printing and bookbinding.
One street back is the pretty Anglican Christ Church, the oldest existing church in New Zealand, complete with musket ball holes in the old weatherboards, a visible reminder of the fierce fighting during the 1845 Battle of Kororareka. The graveyard has a fascinating history and local life has been captured in the beautiful tapestry kneelers adorning the pews inside.
Part of the beauty of a visit to Russell is the compact nature of the town. Everywhere is within easy walking distance, including picturesque Long Beach, an easy 10 minute walk from the town centre, or for those with a little more energy, Tapeka Beach, about 20 minutes walk. Both are wonderful places to swim and relax.
Russell Museum and the Department of Conservation Visitor Centre are a wealth of information and will give you further insight into Russell through their displays and audio visual presentations.
With all the offshore activities the Bay has to offer, and the abundance of cafes, restaurants and attractions in town, no matter what it is youre looking for, Russell has something for everyone.
Come and join us in Russell. Pukeko Cottage is just a short walk from the centre of town. Im sure youll love it!
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