Russell: Discover History and Landscapes

Russell brings together historic buildings and memories of early conflicts with the landscape around Te Maiki/Flagstaff Hill. These places and their stories offer different perspectives: from the churchyard in Russell to the views and habitats on the nearby hill.

Historic Buildings and Memories in Russell

Christ Church was built in 1835 and is New Zealand’s oldest surviving church. During the 1845 battle between British troops and Māori warriors under Kawiti and Hone Heke, the church became the focus of the fighting; several bullet holes date from that time. The churchyard is the resting place of men from the Hazard who died in the battle, as well as Tamati Waka Nene and Hannah King.

Pompallier was built in 1841–1842 and is one of New Zealand’s earliest surviving French colonial buildings. Clendon Cottage is also a historic landmark: it is part of the Pompallier House Historic Reserve and is associated with Rewa and James Reddy Clendon, his wives Sarah and Jane, and his son-in-law, Rev. Frank Gould, and his wife Fanny. The building’s history and personal connections sit side by side, while Christ Church also recalls the events of 1845.

The collection at the Russell Museum is considered important for promoting New Zealand culture. This significance is linked to Russell’s role at the threshold of the earliest connections between Māori and Pākehā. Russell was then known as Kororāreka. The name Kororāreka is therefore encountered in connection with the early history of the place.

Te Maiki/Flagstaff Hill: Views and Landscape

About one kilometre north of Russell lies Te Maiki/Flagstaff Hill. The hill was the catalyst for the Northern War, which contributed to the beginning of the New Zealand Land Wars. At the same time, it offers panoramic views of surrounding bays and hills, including the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

The nearby Flagstaff Hill Loop Track starts in Russell at the intersection of Wellington Street and Kent Street, near the boat ramp on The Strand. The track leads to the summit of Flagstaff Hill (Te Maiki) and 360-degree views over the Bay of Islands. Along the way, it passes through regenerating kanuka and manuka scrub, descends to the Waipara/Watering Bay stream, and passes through a wetland. The views, scrub, stream and wetland offer different landscape experiences along the route.

The scrub on the hill provides habitat for kiwi and weka, but these shy birds often remain hidden from visitors. The endangered North Island weka was successfully reintroduced to the Russell Peninsula by the Russell Landcare Trust. You may encounter one on the track, but a sighting is not guaranteed. To protect kiwi, dogs are not allowed on Te Maiki/Flagstaff Hill. Check the Department of Conservation’s current guidance before your visit.

For your travel plans, two distinct highlights are on offer: historic buildings and the history of Kororāreka in Russell, and views and natural habitats at nearby Te Maiki/Flagstaff Hill.

Discover more destinations: Taipa-Mangonui, Paihia, Opua, Kawakawa, Whangaroa, Pakaraka, Coopers Beach, Kaitaia.

For the broader travel overview: Far North District.