The second time I found myself in Russell, it wasn’t for a spontaneous weekend getaway. This time, I’d planned a bit more. My parents were visiting me in New Zealand for the first time, and I wanted to show them one of my favourite spots. Russell, with its laid-back atmosphere and stunning views, seemed like the perfect choice. But choosing accommodation in russell new zealand, when you’re travelling with family is a whole different game.

When it’s just me, I’m easy. I can crash at a hostel or a budget BB. But for my parents, I wanted something a bit more comfortable—a place that was charming but also had a bit of luxury. So, the hunt began!

Tailoring Accommodation to Your Group

One of the first things to think about when choosing accommodation in Russell, NZ, is who you’re travelling with. If you’re solo or with a partner, you can be a bit more flexible. However, if you’re with family or a group, you need to think about everyone’s preferences. For my parents, I knew they’d appreciate something with a bit more character than a standard hotel, but not too remote since they love walking to town for coffee in the morning.

We settled on a small boutique hotel that was just a short walk from the main strip of Russell. It had the perfect balance of comfort, style, and location.

When booking accommodation in Russell, NZ, you’ll quickly notice that each place has its own unique vibe. Some places are more relaxed and laid-back, while others cater to luxury seekers. For my parents’ visit, I wanted something that gave them a taste of Russell’s charm without feeling too posh or over-the-top.

We ended up staying at a boutique hotel that combined heritage with modern touches—exactly what I was after. It had a rustic feel with exposed wooden beams, but the rooms were modern and comfortable. There was a lovely little garden out back where my dad could relax with a book while my mum explored the local shops. It felt like we were experiencing a bit of Russell’s history without sacrificing comfort. It was perfect for a family getaway, but also ideal for couples looking for a romantic escape or even solo travellers wanting a quiet retreat.

Self-Catering or Hotel?

Another important decision to make when choosing accommodation is whether you want the convenience of a hotel or the flexibility of self-catering accommodation. Personally, I love staying at places where I can cook my own meals when I’m travelling solo. It gives me the freedom to come and go as I please, and it’s usually more budget-friendly.

But with my parents, I knew they’d appreciate having breakfast made for them and not having to think about food preparation. So, the hotel option was definitely the right call for this trip. Many hotels in Russell offer breakfast, and some even have restaurants on site. Our hotel had a small café attached, which became our go-to spot for morning coffees and croissants before heading out for the day.

However, if you’re planning to stay in Russell for a longer period or with a group of friends, self-catering might be the way to go. You can rent entire houses with full kitchens, giving you the option to cook your own meals, which can save money and make the trip more laid-back. A mate of mine rented a holiday home with a bunch of friends, and they made the most of the outdoor BBQ area—grilling up fresh seafood they bought from a local market.

The Importance of Views

Let’s be honest, a trip to Russell isn’t complete without taking in the incredible views of the Bay of Islands. One of the main selling points of the accommodation we chose was the view. Our hotel had rooms that overlooked the harbour, and waking up to that every morning was something special. My parents were blown away by the scenery—my mum even joked that we could sit on the balcony all day and still feel like we’d had the full Russell experience.

When you’re looking for accommodation in Russell, NZ, I highly recommend prioritising a place with good views if possible. Whether it’s a beachfront property or somewhere nestled in the hills with a view of the bay, it can really elevate the trip. It doesn’t need to be the fanciest spot—just waking up and seeing the sparkling blue water or the surrounding greenery makes a huge difference.

Getting Around

Russell is small enough that you don’t really need a car to get around once you’ve arrived, especially if you’re staying near the town centre. That’s one of the things I love most about this place—you can easily walk from your accommodation to the local cafes, restaurants, and beaches. For this trip, my parents and I walked everywhere. We’d start the day with a stroll along the waterfront, grab a coffee, and then decide on our plans for the day.

If you’re staying a bit further out or planning to explore more of the Bay of Islands, though, you might want to have a car. There are some great hikes and more secluded beaches that are a short drive from Russell. Plus, having a car makes it easier to take day trips to nearby spots like Paihia or Kerikeri.

When to Book

One thing to remember about Russell is that it’s a popular spot, especially during the summer and holiday seasons. The first time I visited Russell, I made the rookie mistake of trying to book accommodation last minute in January. Needless to say, I didn’t get my first choice.

So, if you’re planning a trip during peak season, it’s best to book your accommodation as early as possible. My parents came to visit in late February, just after the holiday rush, so we were able to snag a nice place without much hassle. But if you’re thinking of coming during the summer or for a long weekend, be prepared for higher prices and limited availability if you wait too long.