The pace of Russell is unhurried and quite different from most busy tourist locations. We’re a small, cohesive community that offers friendly hospitality, exceptional levels of dining and adventures to suite all types of guests.
Russell is bathed in history, being NZ's first capital town, and every attempt has been made to preserve our quant village and slower pace.
Arcadia Lodge is perfectly located over Matauwhi Bay. Most guests simple stroll around the corner to the village on foot to explore our walkable to historic sites, restaurants, beaches, and wharf. Many guests also love the simplicity of sitting on the waterfront with a glass of wine to soak in the splendour of what makes Russell so very special.
Russell sits right in the heart of the Bay of Islands, making it a delightful home base for your Northland adventure- as we say rushing is Illegal so take your time.
1. Talk to Greg about his "Russell Walk" this takes in Russell's main highlights .
2. Go to Omata Vineyard & Kitchen for casual woodfired Pizza & Platters - this is one of our favourite escapes, and we think Sarah and her team do a splendid job.
3. You can't come to the Bay of Islands without seeing them. Let us book you with Rick & Robyn on Phantom Sailing or a bigger boat to Urapukapuka Island & Hole in the Rock trip.
4. Wonder around Russell Village, sit on the waterfront having a coffee, something causal to eat, or a glass of local wine.
5. Russell is NZ's first capital town, learn about the history by going to Russell Museum, Pompallier Mission House & Printery, Take a Russell Mini Tour that takes 50 mins to learn about our rich and rather dubious history once called "The Hell Hole of the Pacific".
6. Get us to book you a window table at The Gables on the waterfront or at Sage @ Paroa bay - ask us to book the complementary shuttle for you.
7. Take a stroll along Long beach, we have beach towels if you want to swim. Get a coffee from Carl at the coffee cart, its a national icon, he's a really nice guy too.
8. Waitangi -voted NZ in top places of national significance, take a journey of discovery, learn about the Treaty of Waitangi, a guided walk around the grounds is included, and visit Te Rau Aroha - this exhibition, its a very moving experience.
9. "Go local" and buy Fish & Chips from Russell Fish Co, sit on the beach and watch the sunset. (even better with a glass of our local wine).
10. Take time to celebrate everything that is wonderful and enjoy the moment of being in our little piece of paradise.
