Taking a Campervan to Russell: The Opua–Okiato Car Ferry

Quick summary: Russell sits across the water from Paihia, and there are two ways to reach it on a campervan or motorhome trip. The vehicle ferry carries you across the narrow channel from Opua to Okiato in a few minutes, with a short drive on to the town. Or you can leave the vehicle in Paihia and take the passenger ferry straight across the bay. Once you’re there, Russell’s historic waterfront, its church and mission, and the view from Flagstaff Hill are well worth a day.

At a glance
Vehicle ferry	Opua to Okiato, a crossing of a few minutes
Opua from Paihia	Around 7 km
Okiato to Russell	Around 9 km
Passenger ferry	Paihia wharf to Russell, no vehicle needed
Road alternative	A long, winding inland road from State Highway 1
Parking in Russell	Limited, on narrow streets near the waterfront
Best for	A day trip, or a quieter overnight base

How does the Opua–Okiato car ferry work?

The vehicle ferry shuttles back and forth across the channel between Opua, south of Paihia, and Okiato, on the Russell side. Crossings are short, a matter of minutes, and the ferry runs frequently through the day. You drive on, pay, and drive off on the other side. It carries cars, campervans and motorhomes, though very large vehicles should check before travelling. Operating times can change, so check the current details before you go, particularly for an early or late crossing.

From Okiato, the road runs around 9 km over the hills to Russell, through bush and past small bays.

Is the passenger ferry a better option?

For a day trip, often yes. A passenger ferry runs from Paihia’s wharf directly across the bay to Russell’s waterfront, so you avoid driving and parking altogether. Leave the campervan at your Paihia holiday park, cross on foot, explore the town and come back in the evening. Take the vehicle ferry if you are staying in Russell overnight or continuing around the Russell peninsula.

Can you take a large RV on the Russell car ferry?

Generally yes. The Opua–Okiato ferry routinely carries campervans and motorhomes, and the crossing is short and sheltered. The approach roads to both ramps are narrow in places, so take them slowly, and follow the crew’s directions when boarding. If your motorhome is particularly long or tall, check with the operator in advance.

Is there a road to Russell without the ferry?

Yes, an inland road links Russell with State Highway 1 near Whakapara, south of Kawakawa, but it is long and winding, with sections through hilly country. For most travellers coming from Paihia, the car ferry is far quicker.

What is there to see in Russell?

• The Strand, Russell’s waterfront promenade, lined with pōhutukawa trees, historic buildings and cafés.
• Christ Church, New Zealand’s oldest surviving church, with musket-ball marks still visible in its walls.
• Pompallier Mission, a restored building that once housed a printing press producing books in te reo Māori, with tours of the printery and tannery.
• Flagstaff Hill (Maiki), a short drive or a steady walk above the town, with sweeping views over the bay and a flagpole with a dramatic history.
• Long Beach (Oneroa Bay), a sheltered, sandy beach a short walk over the hill from the town.
• Tapeka Point, a headland walk with views across the bay.

Russell was once a lawless whaling port, known for its rowdy past, and today it is one of the most charming and peaceful towns in Northland.

Where can you park and stay in Russell?

Russell’s streets are narrow and hilly, and parking near the waterfront is limited, especially in summer. Park on the edges of the town and walk in. Russell has holiday parks and campgrounds, and staying overnight is a quieter alternative to Paihia. Freedom camping is limited and only for certified self-contained vehicles where Far North District Council permits it. See our Northland campsites guide.

Which tours depart from Russell?

Some bay cruises, sailing trips and Hole in the Rock cruises call at Russell as well as Paihia, so you can join from either side. See Hole in the Rock cruises, bay cruises and sailing tours.

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