Russell Saturday - January 25, 2014

SATURDAY – JANUARY 25, 2014

BOTTOM LINE:

Take ferry across bay to the town of Russell

BACK STORY:

Having had a full day of fresh air and boat ride on Friday, we decided to sleep in and have a low-key day.

About noon we took a cute local ferry over to the town of Russell.  Russell sits on a lovely aqua cove within the Bay of Islands.  Most think that Russell was the first capitol of New Zealand and is an island…neither, which are true.

Ferry to Russell

cove that Russell sits on

   

 

Tall ship at Russell

First Catholic mission by French

Russell is a finger of the main north island.  The first capitol is down the road from Russell.  Russell’s true claim to fame is it’s beauty and quaint English cottage feel.

The waterfront is lined with shade trees and lawn that extends to the sandy beach. Roads near the water are narrow and historic buildings are well preserved. The quiet seaside village is very conscious of its heritage and is concerned with preserving that historic character and natural beauty for visitors to enjoy.  We did while walking around and enjoying a simple lunch at an outdoor café.

Quaint Russell

 

tree lined street of Russell

 

 

 

 

Historical church and cemetery

 

Whaling ship

Locals in period clothing

We caught a ferry back to Paihia where we wanted to attend a mass at the only church in town.  During the service we realized that the Catholics rent space from the Anglicans who own the church.  The service was filled with farewell sentiments for the Priest who apparently was leaving the community within the week for an assignment in the Philippians.