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Situated in the heart of New Zealand’s Bay of Islands, Russell is a quaint, laid back town where balmy weather and a pristine harbour create a relaxed atmosphere. To get to Russell, you need to catch a ferry across the bay – and during that short, five-minute ride, the stresses and hustle of everyday life seem to disappear.
Passenger ferries run backwards and forwards all day between Russell and Paihia – and vehicle ferries between Opua and Russell run a regular schedule.
Driving Instructions – From Auckland
Auckland to Russell driving time: 3.5 hours (233 km / 145 miles)
Take SH 1 north, direction Whangarei
Continue past Whangarei to KawaKawa on SH 1
Take SH11 direction Russell/Paihia and Opua.
Turn right at Opua to car ferry. You will need cash for the car ferry ticket (under $20 one way). Ferries shuttle back and forth every from 6:40 am to 10 pm. No pre-booking.
Remain on this road for 8km into Russell village. Stay on main road.
Flagstaff Lodge is just past the shops on a large section on the right hand corner – you will see the sign.
Parking available on-site.
Driving Instructions – From the Bay of Islands (Kerikeri) Airport
Airport to Russell driving time: one hour
Turn left on exiting airport
After about 3 km turn right at round about direction Paihia on SH10
Turn left at Puketona onto SH11 direction Paihia
Drive until meeting the ocean and turn right at roundabout. Drive for about 8 km, passing through Paihia until you see sign for Opua. Turn left downhill.
You will need cash for the car ferry ticket (under $20 one-way). Ferries shuttle back and forth from 6:40 am to 10 pm. No pre-booking.
Remain on this road for 8km into Russell village. Stay on main road.
Flagstaff Lodge is just past the shops on a large section on the right hand corner – you will see the sign.
Parking available on-site.
Flying and Driving Times
Auckland to Kerikeri Flight time: 40 minutes
Kerikeri to Opua Driving time: 40 minutes (31 km / 20 miles)
Opua to Russell Via vehicle ferry: 15 minutes
Auckland to Whangarei Flight time: 25 minutes
Whangarei to Opua Driving time: 60 minutes
Opua to Russell Via vehicle ferry: 15 minutes
Rental cars are available from both Kerikeri and Whangarei airports. Flagstaff Lodge offers guests a pickup and drop-off service if needed.
