Russell’s original claim to fame is being New Zealand’s oldest European settlement. But these days, this small town in northeast North Island is known for several other things. It’s widely recognized for its collection of historic sites. These include Russell Museum, where visitors can learn about the town’s early days and Maori heritage. Russell’s location along Bay of Islands makes it a popular jump-off point for boating excursions. You can sail to nearby destinations such as Motuarohia Island and Motorua Island. With its reputation as a renowned resort town, there are plenty of great accommodations to choose from. Scroll down to see the top hotels in Russell, New Zealand.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 14, 2024.
1. The Duke of Marlborough (from USD 153)
The Duke of Marlborough is a snazzy hotel located along Russell’s waterfront. The selection of accommodations at the hotel includes luxurious bay-view suites with private balconies as smaller rooms for the light traveler. The main highlight, however, is the hotel restaurant. Overlooking the water, it’s a great spot to enjoy seasonal fare, fresh seafood, and a fine selection of wines and beer.
If you haven’t had time to plan your activities, the hotel has an excellent team of experts that can craft the perfect Bay of Islands itinerary for you.
The Duke Of Marlborough
Address: 35 The Strand
16.94 km (10.6 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm Caves
Nearby hotels
2. Copthorne Hotel and Resort Bay of Islands in Waitangi (from USD 161)
Copthorne Hotel and Resort is on the other side of the bay, about 17.7 km (11.00 mi) by land or a 50-minute ferry ride away. It seems like a journey to get here, but it’s worth it. After all, what awaits at the resort are 60 ac (24.28 ha) of exclusivity for guests, right at Waitangi National Trust Reserve.
Choose from 140 rooms and suites and spend your days soaking at the lagoon-style swimming pool. When it’s time to eat and drink, head to Jimmy Cook’s Kiwi Kitchen within the resort.
Copthorne Hotel & Resort Bay Of Islands
Address: 1 Tau Henare Drive, Waitangi
15.63 km (9.8 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm Caves
3. Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge Paihia (from USD 119)
Part of the Millennium chain of hotels, this hotel is ideally located along the waterfront. Out of the 100 rooms in the hotel, 13 suites have private balconies where guests can enjoy fantastic views of the bay.
Also located within the property is McKenzie’s Restaurant and Bar, where they serve both Kiwi and international cuisine from breakfast to dinner. For fun, hang out at the outdoor swimming pool overlooking the bay, or play with family and friends at the game room.
Kingsgate Hotel Autolodge Paihia
Address: 104 Marsden Road
14.48 km (9.0 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm Caves
4. Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands in Paihia (from USD 99)
Reasonable pricing for spacious rooms and convenient location near Paihia wharf.
Good-sized pool, guest laundry, and beautiful tropical gardens. Some rooms need updating.
Conveniently close to Paihia wharf and beach, with easy access to bars, cafes, and restaurants.
Delicious breakfast with a good selection, but limited dinner menu. Some minor issues with restaurant service.
Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands is a lovely choice if you’re staying in Paihia, which is about 16.3 km (10.13 mi) away from Russell. The entire property is set in a lush, tropical garden setting.
Depending on the room you book, you might get a private balcony overlooking all of this greenery. There are 114 rooms in this pet-friendly hotel, all with heating and cooling, as well as complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi.
Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands
Address: 58 Seaview Road, Bay of Islands
13.79 km (8.6 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm Caves
5. Paihia Pacific Resort Hotel (from USD 72)
Paihia Pacific Resort puts you only 350 m (1,148.29 ft) from the sandy stretch that is Paihia Beach. But if you want to take a break from seawater, the outdoor swimming pool is also a great and relaxing alternative.
Different types of rooms are available for guests of all sizes, with the largest sleeping up to four people. And should you need assistance or advice about Bay of Islands activities, the front desk will be more than happy to help you.
Paihia Pacific Resort Hotel
Address: 27 Kings Road
13.86 km (8.7 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm Caves
6. Paihia Beach Resort and Spa Hotel (from USD 163)
One of Paihia Beach Resort and Spa Hotel’s best features is its waterfront guest rooms. All of them face the water and with floor-to-ceiling windows, so you can maximize the views. And if vistas of Bay of Islands aren’t enough to get you relaxed, pay La Spa Naturale a visit for a massage.
You’ll wind down even further at Glasshouse Kitchen and Bar, where you can try a variety of staples from South Asia, the Middle East, and of course, New Zealand.
Paihia Beach Resort & Spa Hotel
Address: 130 Marsden Road
14.62 km (9.1 mi) from Kawiti Glowworm Caves
Historic attractions and water activities await
Russell is the ideal place to start what could be an unforgettable Bay of Islands adventure. Whether you choose to stay in or head out for the day, these top hotels in and around Russell will make sure you’re having a blast.
History
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