When we stay in central Russell at Crab Shack Cottage, there is one morning ritual we absolutely never miss: getting out on foot to experience the raw, natural beauty of the Bay of Islands. While a flat, easy stroll down to the golden sands of Long Beach is perfect for a relaxed morning coffee, those looking for a rewarding physical challenge will find nothing sweeter than the trek out to Tapeka Point via Flagstaff Hill and Jim's Walkway.
Walking in the Native Bush & Breathtaking Views from Flagstaff Hill
The journey kicks off with a steep, heart-pumping climb up Wellington Street toward the historic Flagstaff Hill Reserve. It is an incredible cardio workout that will definitely wake up your legs, but the effort is forgotten the exact second you reach the summit. Standing at the top, you are treated to breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views stretching across the sparkling Russell Harbour, out over the pristine peninsula, and directly across the water to Paihia.
From the hilltop, the track transitions beautifully into Jim's Walkway, guiding you deep into a lush pocket of native New Zealand bush. Walking beneath the towering canopy of native trees, vibrant pungas, and ferns feels like stepping into another world. The local community has even integrated charming, hand-crafted "bug hotels" along the side of the trail, a brilliant touch that keeps the kids completely engaged and searching for tiny critters while you track through the wilderness.
What makes this spectacular trail even more exciting is its recent rise to national fame! The incredible community conservation efforts, local pest-trapping initiatives, and the walking tracks were proudly spotlighted in a dedicated feature episode on TVNZ's Seven Sharp, which was subsequently praised in a major feature article by the New Zealand Herald.
Hear and, If You're Lucky, See Wild Kiwis on Your Walk
Because of this wildly successful community project, wild North Island Brown Kiwi numbers have absolutely boomed across the peninsula. In fact, if you head to the right spot, such as the densely forested sections of Jim's Walkway, and remain completely quiet and patient, you stand a very real, incredibly special chance of spotting a kiwi foraging in the wild.
Lie in Bed at Crab Shack Cottage and Hear Native Bird Calls
But the real magic happens when the sun goes down. One of our absolute favorite things to do is simply lie in bed at night at Crab Shack Cottage with the windows cracked open, listening to the symphony of New Zealand's native birds. Around dusk and dawn, the boisterous, conversational calls of the regional Wekas echo through the trees.
As darkness sets in, you will hear the steady, rhythmic hooting of the Morepork, our native owl, which is a constant soundtrack to our nights here. Then, later into the evening, the magic truly peaks as you hear the piercing, distinct calls of wild kiwis communicating with each other across the complex boundaries.
It is an unforgettable, surreal experience knowing that you can listen to New Zealand's rarest, most iconic native wildlife calling out to one another while wrapped up in premium luxury bedding right in the heart of town. Whether you are exploring the coastal tracks by day or listening to the nocturnal calls by night, Crab Shack Cottage serves as your ultimate front-row seat to Northland’s thriving ecosystem. Click here to book your Crab Shack Cottage stay now!
