The Slow Rd to Russell

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Driving up to the Bay of Islands?

	Rather than taking the direct route from Whangarei north to Paihia via Kawakawa, why not go by the coast road? It’s off the beaten track, and the road at some places is narrow, winding and not recommended for large campervans, but it will take you through some breathtaking coastal scenery and a few lovely out-of-the-way settlements that most tourists don’t get to see. From Whangarei you drive on State Highway 1 north past Hikurangi, turn right on Old Russell Rd which will take you to Helena Bay. This is a great spot for a picnic (you’ll have to bring the food with you) while you enjoy the the view and the serenity of the bay. Stay on the Old Russell Rd which will lead you to… you guessed it… Russell! Although there are not too many places to stop along the road to admire the view, you get plenty of chances to do so from the car, since it’s definitely a slow drive, through forestry and native bush.
View from the Old Russell Road	Helena Bay, on the coast road to the Bay of Islands

Russell, or Kororareka, is a historic town which was New Zealand’s first capital and is home to the Duke of Marlborough Hotel which holds the first liquor license in New Zealand. It’s charming waterfront and historic buildings lure many visitors. Most choose to take the ferry from Paihia and spend the day in Russell, but better still - you can stay the night or even for a week.

View over Matauwhi Bay in Russell, Bay of Islands	Long beach, Oneroa Bay, Russell

There’s lots to do in town, including walks to Flagstaff Hill for fantastic views of the Russell and the Bay, visits to old Christ Church and cemetery, the Russell Museum and a host of Cafes and Restaurants on the waterfront. Long Beach (Oneroa Bay) is just on the other side of the hill with it’s stunning beach, and Tapeka point is not far away on the other side of the peninsula. With plenty of accommodation, from campgrounds to one of the oldest hotels in New Zealand, all within walking distance to the Russell wharf, it’s a perfect base for all you water activities, including your tour of the Bay with Freewind. For some fresh air and excercise, you can set out on one of the many walking tracks through the nature reserves which surround Russell or follow the historic walking tour route.

Russell waterfront	Top 10 campground, 2 minutes walk from town centre

If you prefer the “short way” to Russell, keep going on Highway 1 and continue on Highway 11 at the Kawakawa intersection. At the top of the Opua hill, turn right down the hill to the vehicle ferry (Beechy St, Opua on the GPS) which will take you the short trip to Okiato, just 8 km drive from Russell.
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Which ever road you take to Russell, we hope you enjoy this unique town and the Bay of Islands.