Religious site
Christ Church, Russell
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Christ Church in Russell is the oldest church in New Zealand, constructed in 1835 from local materials. Visitors can explore the simple wooden interior, see the historic stained glass windows, and wander the peaceful churchyard, which contains graves of early settlers and Māori. The church's history includes its role during the Flagstaff War, and bullet holes from the conflict are still visible in the exterior. It remains an active Anglican parish church, offering a quiet place for reflection and a tangible link to New Zealand's colonial past.
Don't miss
- View the bullet holes from the 1845 Flagstaff War on the church's exterior.
- Visit the graves of early European settlers and notable Māori figures in the churchyard.
- See the original 1835 wooden structure and historic stained glass windows.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Christ Church, Russell
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
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