Kesters Cottage is a holiday house in Russell, in the Bay of Islands. It’s a simple Kiwi Bach with unrivalled views over Long Beach & the Outer Bay of Islands. The house is close to swimming beaches, fishing, sea kayaking, sightseeing, dolphin & whale watching, scuba diving, golf & a host of other activities.
Things to do in Russell, New Zealand
A walk around the township of Russell visiting some of the historic sites is relaxing way to spend a day. Popular sites includes:
- Flagstaff Hill. In the 1800s, as a signal of his unhappiness with the plight of Maori, Hone Heke a local Maori chief chopped down the flagpole. The British interpreted this as an act of rebellion and soon the two groups were at war. In the time space of 6 months Hone Heke managed to cut the flagpole down three times. To prevent this from happening yet again, the Crown ordered in a battalion of British soldiers to defend it. Heke created a diversion with the help of Kawiti and, whilst the soldiers were fighting on the beach, Heke and a few others crept towards the flagpole and cut it down for the fourth time. This was the beginning of the Flagstaff War. Now you can, take one of the Departments of conservation tracks through the regenerating native bush up to the top of flagstaff hill. This historic site offers panoramic views over the Bay of Islands.
- Russell Museum. This small museum has a number displays on the early history of Maori and European contact in the Bay of Islands, including a replica of Captain Cooks ship the Endeavor.
- Christ Church: Built in 1836, this is the country's oldest church still in use today. The facade shows sign of musket holes dating from conflicts between local Maori and European settlers. The graveyard contains memorials of many Maori and European who were prominent in New Zealand's early history.
- Long Beach: Long beach is a beautiful stretch of sandy beach about 1km east of the township, and a popular spot for swimming and fishing during the summer. Because it is largely sheltered from the open ocean & large waves it is one of the safest swimming beaches in the area.
- Duke of Marlborough Hotel. The “Duke” is a historic waterfront hotel and restaurant, and the first hotel to be licensed in New Zealand. It is perhaps one of the most scenic places in New Zealand to have a few drinks with friends.
- Russell DOC Visitor’s Centre. This is a great place to learn about the Bay of Island’s history and find out about local activities such as snorkeling, diving, walks, campsites, & current wildlife conservation programs. A documentary about the wildlife & history of the Bay of islands runs every 20 minutes.
- Pompallier House: This is New Zealand's oldest surviving Roman Catholic building and was built in 1841-42 for Bishop Pompallier. Constructed of rammed earth & Kauri timber. This elegant two-storey house is now managed by the NZ Historic Places Trust.
Looking for accommodation in Russell or the Bay of Islands? Our 2 bedroom holiday house in Russell has wonderful views over Long Beach & the outer Islands. The house is available for as little $130 per night. If you are in Russell, for a few days, the house provides a great & economical base for the range of activities that the Bay offers
The rental for Kester’s cottage is $ 130 per night. A minimum stay of 2 nights is required. For longer bookings discounted rates are sometimes available. The holiday house is available for rent throughout the year. It is often booked out over the summer holiday season, so advanced bookings are recommended.
