CRAB SHACK COTTAGE
RUSSELL HOLIDAY HOME
Your ideal holiday rental accommodation in Russell, Bay of Islands
300m from the Russell Wharf, Crab Shack Cottage is a beautifully updated four bedroom, three bathroom colonial-style Russell holiday home that sleeps 8 comfortably. Directly opposite the spa pool and pool complex, Crab Shack Cottage is perfect accommodation for families and groups, featuring two ensuite bedrooms, outdoor entertaining, an EV charger, air conditioning, and easy access to the best of the Bay of Islands.
COLONIAL VILLA
Crab Shack Cottage (formerly called Capital Cottage) at Russell Cottages is the perfect Bay of Islands getaway for families and groups wanting space, comfort, and a premium location in the heart of Russell. Proudly part of the premier Russell Cottages collection on Chapel Street.
Formerly known as Capital Cottage, this beautifully appointed colonial-style holiday home combines relaxed coastal charm with modern convenience. With four spacious bedrooms, including two master bedrooms with ensuites, plus a full family bathroom, there’s plenty of room for extended families, couples travelling together, or group getaways in this beautiful Russell holiday home.
CENTRAL LOCATION
The perfect place to relax in Russell
Four Bedrooms
comfortably
sleeps 8
Three
Bathrooms
Two ensuites, one family bathroom
EV
Charger
On request for your convenience
Gas
Fireplace
Perfect for cosy nights
Pool
and Hot Tub
Heated year round
Gourmet Kitchen
Great for nights in
Designed for year-round comfort, the cottage features air conditioning, a cosy gas fireplace, ceiling fans, USB charging points, a full laundry, stylish open-plan living, and an EV charger.
A standout feature is the private outdoor dining and entertaining area, the perfect place to relax after a day exploring the Bay of Islands.
Located directly across the driveway from the resort pool and spa complex, guests enjoy easy access to the heated pool, spa, two BBQs, changing rooms, toilets, and a poolside kitchenette complete with an ice maker.
Set in the highly sought-after Russell Basin, the cottage is just a flat 300m walk to Russell Wharf. Along the way, stop for coffee, brunch, or gelato at local favourites including Hell Hole Café and The Nauti Penguin.
From the wharf, discover ferries, fishing charters, dolphin cruises, and island tours exploring the stunning Bay of Islands. Stroll the waterfront promenade, soak up the history of New Zealand’s first capital, and enjoy Russell’s vibrant mix of cafés, restaurants, galleries, and bars. Finish the day with sunset drinks overlooking the water at the iconic The Duke of Marlborough.
Whether you’re planning a summer holiday, fishing trip, wedding accommodation, or relaxing coastal escape, Crab Shack Cottage offers the perfect base to experience the very best of Russell and the Bay of Islands
ABOUT CRABSHACK COTTAGE
A Russell holiday home that sleeps 8
The cottage
Sleeps 8 comfortably
Recently updated
Ceiling fans and USB sockets in all bedrooms
Indoor dining for 8
Excellent private outdoor living area off the road, with a wraparound deck and outdoor dining for 8
Four Bedrooms (comfortably sleeps 8)
Bedroom 1 - Master super king bed & ensuite (ground floor)
Bedroom 2 - Queen bed & ensuite (upstairs floor)
Bedroom 3 - Queen bed (upstairs floor)
Bedroom 4 - Twin single beds (upstairs floor)
Amenities
Heated pool and spa pool (year-round)
Two BBQs in the pool house
Pool house can be used for parties and dining
Playground
Parking
Two dedicated car parks
Two shared boat parks (first come, first served)
Cottage Layout
Downstairs has an open plan kitchen and dining that seats 8, a lounge with air conditioning and a gas fire, the master king bedroom with a separate bathroom and toilet, laundry. Beautiful french doors open out to the private wrap-around deck.
Upstairs you'll find three generous bedrooms. Two are queen rooms (one with ensuite) plus one twin room. There is a family bathroom with a full bath, plus an air-conditioned landing and study nook.
Need more space?
Crab Shack Cottage is part of the Russell Cottages Collection, a resort on Chapel Street, so if you have a larger group, it makes an ideal base for your group trip!
OUR LOCATION
Located in 'The Basin', central Russell
Crab Shack Cottage is located in 'The Basin' right in the heart of Russell. It's a flat 300m walk (approximately 4 mins) to Russell Wharf, where you'll pass cafes, gelato stalls and eateries along the way.
Getting here
Opua Car Ferry
The ferry service operates as a shuttle, departing approximately every 10 minutes during the day, and every 20 minutes early morning and late evening. Opua is about 7 minutes’ drive from Paihia and Okiato is about 10 minutes’ drive from Russell. See more here.
Passenger ferries
Northland Ferries operates passenger ferries to and from Paihia. There is a summer season and winter season timetable. See more here and view a schedule here.
THINGS TO DO
Explore in and around Russell
Restaurants nearby
There are many great options within easy flat walking distance of Crab Shack Cottage, as well as some premium options with great reputations!
On the water activities
Enjoy dolphin and whale watching, Hole in the Rock trips and Bay of Islands cruises with the many local Bay of Islands operators. Check out Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island for something extra special.
Russell & Bay of Islands Attractions
Pompallier Mission and Printery: pompallier.co.nz
A historic 19th-century mission where you can see traditional bookbinding and leather tanning.
Russell Museum: russellmuseum.org.nz
Local history museum featuring a 1/5th scale model of Captain Cook’s ship, the Endeavour.
Christ Church Russell: oldchurch.org.nz
New Zealand's oldest surviving church, still showing musket holes from the 1845 Battle of Kororāreka.
Waitangi Treaty Grounds: waitangi.org.nz
The nation's most significant historic site where the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed.
Duke of Marlborough Hotel: theduke.co.nz
A landmark waterfront hotel and restaurant holding New Zealand’s very first liquor license.
Flagstaff Hill (Maiki Hill): doc.govt.nz
A historic hilltop reserve offering panoramic 360-degree views over the Bay of Islands.
Tapeka Point Track: doc.govt.nz
A short coastal hike to a headland with spectacular ocean vistas and potential dolphin sightings.
Hole in the Rock Cruises: dolphincruises.co.nz
A popular boat tour that takes you out to the iconic rock archway at the edge of the bay.
R. Tucker Thompson Tall Ship: tucker.co.nz
A traditional gaff-rigged schooner where you can experience authentic tall ship sailing.
Urupukapuka Island Walk: doc.govt.nz
A major 5-hour loop track around a stunning island recreation reserve and wildlife sanctuary.
Motuarohia (Roberton) Island Track: doc.govt.nz
A short climb to a famous lookout over two picturesque lagoons and turquoise water.
Moturua Island Walk: doc.govt.nz
A 2.5-hour loop through native bush and four different secluded swimming beaches.
Island Ferry (Explore Group): exploregroup.co.nz
The primary passenger ferry service for accessing the outer islands and wildlife cruises.
Russell Nature Walks (Kiwi Walk): facebook/russellnaturewalks
A guided night tour in a private reserve to see and hear wild North Island Brown Kiwi and glow worms.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Crab Shack Cottage Reviews
10 / 10 - Kelly, New Zealand
"Great bach in amazing condition. Has everything you'd need. Perfect location for walking everywhere. Pool and hot tub are also fantastic for the kids."
10 / 10 - Marcus, Australia
"Exceptional."
5 Stars - Google
Dot, New Zealand
"Such a fabulous Cottage to rent. We loved our ensuite bathroom, the pool, spa pool and BBQ area which all put us right in holiday mode. We also enjoyed the easy stroll to Russell waterfront with all the bars and cafes that is on offer! Such an easy place to stay, we will be back to visit again soon."
5 Stars - Google
Maegan, New Zealand
"Fabulous place to stay! Travelled to Northland for a work trip with 4 couples, More room than we needed. The pool and spa are great and so close to this property. 10/10 can’t wait to stay again."
5 Star - AirBnB June 2026
Aaron
"Lovely place to stay. Flat walk to all the eateries. Very comfortable for 3 couples. Would recommend."
5 Star - Google
Phil, NZ
We had a fantastic stay in Russell, the cottage is in an amazing central location making it super easy to walk to all the cafes and shops on the flat. It was a great experience and we would love to come back and stay again.
5 Star - Google
Hamish, NZ
Had a wonderful time at Crab Shack cottage. The facilities not only in the house but also in the complex were amazing. Beautiful, heated pool with adjoining BBQ area. The house was very comfortable with lovely furnishings and amenities. Would totally recommend staying here.
TBC
More reviews to follow...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many guests can stay at Crab Shack Cottage?
Crab Shack Cottage comfortably accommodates up to eight guests across four bedrooms and three bathrooms, making it ideal for families, couples travelling together and small groups.
How far is Crab Shack Cottage from Russell Wharf?
Crab Shack Cottage is located approximately 300 metres from Russell Wharf, an easy four-minute walk to the waterfront, restaurants, cafés, ferries and local attractions.
Is Crab Shack Cottage suitable for families?
Yes. Crab Shack Cottage is ideal for families, offering four bedrooms, three bathrooms, plenty of indoor and outdoor living space, a heated swimming pool, spa pool and convenient access to Russell's beaches and attractions.
Does Crab Shack Cottage have a pool and spa pool?
Yes. Guests have access to a heated swimming pool and hot tub located directly opposite the cottage, making it easy to relax after a day exploring the Bay of Islands.
Is there parking and space for a boat?
Yes. The cottage includes two dedicated car parks and access to two shared boat parks on a first-come, first-served basis, making it an excellent base for boating and fishing trips.
Is Crab Shack Cottage a good base for exploring the Bay of Islands?
Absolutely. Located in the heart of Russell, Crab Shack Cottage provides easy access to boating, fishing, island cruises, dolphin watching, snorkelling, beaches, walking tracks and many of the Bay of Islands' most popular attractions.
What are the best beaches near Crab Shack Cottage?
Long Beach is one of Russell's most popular beaches and is just a short walk or drive from the cottage. Visitors enjoy swimming, snorkelling, sunbathing, beach walks and stunning views across the Bay of Islands.
Is Crab Shack Cottage suitable for wedding guests attending events at The Duke of Marlborough?
Yes. Crab Shack Cottage is a popular choice for families and friends attending weddings and events at The Duke of Marlborough, offering spacious accommodation within easy walking distance of the waterfront and wedding venues.
What activities can I enjoy during my stay in Russell?
Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, snorkelling, diving, dolphin cruises, island-hopping, beach days at Long Beach, coastal walks to Flagstaff Hill and Tapeka Point, waterfront dining and exploring the historic village of Russell.
Are restaurants and cafés within walking distance?
Yes. Crab Shack Cottage is within easy walking distance of many popular Russell cafés, restaurants and bars, making it easy to enjoy breakfast, coffee, lunch and dinner without needing to drive.
Crab Shack Cottage Russell Holiday Rental
Ideal for weddings, large groups and families. 300 m from Russell Wharf.
Cottage 3
16 Chapel Street, Russell, Bay of Islands, New Zealand 0202
Email 3crabshack@gmail.com
Phone +64 27 576 5476
