Russell

Museum

Te Whare Taonga O Kororareka

Russell Museum, Bay of Islands history

If you are interested in early Maori history of the Bay of Islands, the whaling industry that linked traders from New Bedford throughout the Pacific, early European settlement in New Zealand or the beginnings of the game fishing and tourism industry, then a visit to Russell Museum is a must!

The treasure house of Russell (Te Whare Taonga o Kororareka), Russell Museum has several noteworthy and unique collections for you to discover:

• Maori artefacts and early Maori history of Kororareka and Pewhairangi (Bay of Islands)
• A large collection of rare photographs of Russell and Bay of Islands people, places, and history
• The largest collection of pieces from flagpoles chopped down by Maori chief (rangatira), Hone Heke in the 1840s
• Early US Consulate records and shipping lists of whalers, traders, and settlers with links to New Bedford USA, England, Australia, and Europe
• A replica of Captain Cook's ship Endeavour (yes it really has sailed)
• A rare whaling boat and river waka (canoe)
• The largest collection of artwork by acclaimed local Maori artist, Pauline Kahurangi Yearbury
• Contemporary exhibitions in which history and present day concepts meet

At Russell Museum we appreciate your questions, because, then we can add more value to your visit. We welcome schools and researchers. Your inquiries give us the opportunity to assist in education and show off our archives. Our database includes: Books published by and exclusive to the Museum shop, out of print historical books; childrens' books A collection of textual material such as newspaper clippings, and local magazines; oral histories; public records of arcaeological digs; Treaty of Waitangi scoping reports. Artefacts of historical significance

Come on in!

Open every day except Christmas Day:
January: 10am - 5pm and February - December: 10am - 4pm
Admission: Adults - 7.50 / Children - 2.00 / Family rate - 7.50 per Adults and children free