You may not guess it from its tiny population and quiet streets, but Russell is the oldest settled European town in New Zealand. It was even the country's capital for a time. As a result, there's no shortage of important historical buildings and sites to visit. The white, weatherboard 1836 Christ Church, right beside the Russell Museum on Robertson Street, is New Zealand's oldest surviving church, and well worth a visit in conjunction with the museum.
The nearby Pompallier Mission is a real must-visit in Russell. Built in 1842 as a printing works by by the French Catholic mission, it's New Zealand's oldest industrial building and the only building of rammed earth construction from this era in Australasia. Kids can enjoy the hands-on fun of working an old printing press, while everybody can enjoy the beautiful heritage garden grounds and stunning views over the bay. Like other Bay of Islands destinations, Russell is also a place to enjoy many kinds of water activities, from surfing and sailing, to dolphin swimming and fishing.
