Russell-Orongo Bay Holiday Park

See Kiwi in the Wild – Right Here at Our Holiday Park! Russell-Orongo Bay Holiday Park is one of the few places in New Zealand where you can see kiwi in the wild. As night falls, listen for their distinctive calls echoing through the native bush — and with a rise in recent guest sightings, you might even spot one in its natural habitat. Chosen by the BBC to film New Zealand’s rare birdlife, our park offers a truly unique experience of close encounters with native wildlife. All our stays are TV-free, so you can switch off and tune into nature. Visit reception for a copy of our Switch Off & Explore Guide, packed with ideas for things to do around the park, in Russell, and throughout the Bay of Islands. Choose from a range of affordable accommodation options — from self-contained cottages, bungalows, and cabins to scenic powered and non-powered campsites. Perfect for couples, families, and groups, with a spacious lodge that sleeps up to 60 guests. Wake to the sound of native birdsong (over 55 species recorded), relax by the firepit under starry skies, and experience the rare thrill of seeing wild kiwi and weka in their natural environment. Enjoy great facilities including a saltwater swimming pool, playground, communal firepit, BBQs, and a wood-fired pizza oven. Use our central Bay of Islands location as your base to explore nearby beaches, walking trails, heritage sites, and adventures on land or sea. Every stay makes a difference — a portion of your booking supports ongoing habitat restoration and predator control within our park. Make memories as nature intended.

From secluded beaches, scenic walks, heritage sites through to galleries and cafes, Russell is a great place to explore and discover "the real New Zealand" Situated in the geographic centre of the Bay of Islands, Russell offers stunning beaches and the opportunity for island hopping. The only Kiwi and Weka zone on mainland New Zealand, Russell is a bird watcher's paradise. Russell's Pompallier Mission, founded by the French is a unique New Zealand heritage building with a fascinating story to tell. From your visit to the Russell Museum you will learn more about Russell's early history and it's whaling past. Russell featured prominently in the Northern Wars and you can find out more about this at the Russell Museum and at your visit to Christ Church which still has musket holes in its walls. The original and first capital of New Zealand, the charming vilage of Russell is a must see destination.