What to do in Russell

Activities, attractions and tours

A pier with a small information kiosk, boats docked, and a clear blue sky.
A coastal landscape with rocky cliffs and a clear blue sky.
A coastal village with houses on a hillside and several boats anchored in the water.
A coastal pathway with a large tree trunk, a bench, and boats on the water.
A coastal town with a historic tall ship docked at a pier, surrounded by lush greenery and residential buildings.

Things to do

Paihia/Russell: Hole in the Rock & Bay of Islands Cruise

From Paihia: Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour: 3 Hour

฿2,767
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
From Paihia: Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour: 3 Hour
Russell: 1-Hour Sightseeing Tour by Coach & Long Beach

Russell: 1-Hour Sightseeing Tour by Coach & Long Beach

฿668
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Russell: 1-Hour Sightseeing Tour by Coach & Long Beach
Bay of Islands Cruise & Island Tour - Snorkel, Hike,Swim,Wildlife

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

฿3,225
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Bay of Islands Cruise & Island Tour - Snorkel, Hike,Swim,Wildlife
Waitangi Treaty Grounds Admission

Waitangi Treaty Grounds Admission

฿1,412
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Waitangi Treaty Grounds Admission
Glow Worm Caves Express Tour in Bay of Islands

Glow Worm Caves Express Tour in Bay of Islands

฿2,958
per adult
Glow Worm Caves Express Tour in Bay of Islands
Far North New Zealand Tour Including 90 Mile Beach and Cape Reinga from Paihia

Far North New Zealand Tour Including 90 Mile Beach and Cape Reinga from Paihia

฿3,721
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Far North New Zealand Tour Including 90 Mile Beach and Cape Reinga from Paihia
Discover the Bay - Hole in the Rock cruise includes Island Lunch

Discover the Bay - Hole in the Rock cruise includes Island Lunch

฿3,626
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Discover the Bay - Hole in the Rock cruise includes Island Lunch
Bay of Islands: Awesome Day Sailing Tour with Island Stop

Bay of Islands: Awesome Day Sailing Tour with Island Stop

฿3,339
per adult
Bay of Islands: Awesome Day Sailing Tour with Island Stop
Hole in the Rock Scenic Cruise including Dolphins and Island stop

Hole in the Rock Scenic Cruise including Dolphins and Island stop

฿3,244
per adult
Hole in the Rock Scenic Cruise including Dolphins and Island stop
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Most fun & popular experiences in Russell

Tours & day trips

See all 24 activities
From Paihia: Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour: 3 Hour

From Paihia: Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour: 3 Hour

Activity duration is 3 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 34 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is ฿2,726 per adult
From Paihia: Hole in the Rock Cruise & Island Tour: 3 HourOpens in new tab

History & culture

See all 7 activities
Hole in the Rock Scenic Cruise including Dolphins and Island stop

Hole in the Rock Scenic Cruise including Dolphins and Island stop

Activity duration is 4 hours and 30 minutes
9.0 out of 10 with 95 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is ฿3,196 per adult
Hole in the Rock Scenic Cruise including Dolphins and Island stopOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 6 activities
From Paihia: Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island Stopover

From Paihia: Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island Stopover

Activity duration is 3 hours
10.0 out of 10 with 122 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is ฿2,726 per adult
From Paihia: Scenic Cruise with Roberton Island StopoverOpens in new tab

What to do in Russell

Stay near popular Russell attractions

A pier extending into calm waters at sunset.

Russell Beach

9.2/5 (738 reviews)
Oneroa Beach captivates with pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters sheltered from ocean swells. Enjoy a peaceful swim in the calm bay or stroll along the shoreline with panoramic views of the native coastal bush.
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Where to stay in Russell

Find the best Russell areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Russell
Learn more about Russell

Te Wahapu

When in Te Wahapu, you can plan a visit to Paihia Beach and Russell Beach, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

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 kilometres from the centre, and Te Wahapu, which is about 3 kilometres 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.

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.