FerryConnect

New Zealand

Paihia → Russell

Northland Ferries’ passenger ferry crosses the Bay of Islands from Paihia to Russell (Kororāreka), New Zealand’s first colonial capital with its historic Strand waterfront and Christ Church.

⏱ About 15m🚢 1 operator📅 Hourly on the half-hour from Paihia, 7:20am – 10:30pm (summer timetable)
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Paihia to Russell ferry at a glance

The ferry from Paihia to Russell takes About 15m across the Bay of Islands, operated by Northland Ferries. It is a foot-passenger service; vehicles are not carried. Typical frequency: hourly on the half-hour from Paihia, 7:20am – 10:30pm (summer timetable).

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-29.

Sources: northlandferries.co.nz · How we verify

Return crossing: Russell to Paihia

Northland Ferries also sails Russell to Paihia, taking About 10m. Ferries leave Russell on the hour from 7:00am (plus 7:45am) to 10:00pm.

Opua to Okiato (Russell) ferry guide →

Paihia to Russell ferry timetable & sailing pattern

16 departures a day from Paihia in the summer timetable

Summer timetable runs 25 September to 9 May.

Published departure times

  • 7:20am
  • 8:30am
  • 9:30am
  • 12:30pm
  • 5:30pm
  • 10:30pm

Return: Ferries leave Russell on the hour from 7:00am (plus 7:45am) to 10:00pm.

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official Northland Ferries timetable →Check prices & book on Northland Ferries →

Source: Northland Ferries Bay of Islands ferry page. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Paihia and Russell

📐 2 Nautical Miles
Paihia⇄Russell
⏱ About 15m · 📐 2 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
🚗 Operator website

Ready to cross from Paihia to Russell?

Book your crossing with Northland Ferries: live fares, availability and sailing times.

Book with Northland Ferries→

Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Northland Ferries15mPassenger ferry

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Foot passengers only

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

No pet facilities

📐

Distance

2 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Drop-offs at Waitangi are available on request on the 10am and 3pm sailings from Russell.
  • Bikes are carried for a small fee.

Related Ferry Crossings

Return crossingOpua → Okiato (Russell)About 10mNearby alternative crossingAuckland → DevonportAbout 12m · Fullers360Nearby alternative crossingAuckland → Half Moon BayAbout 38m · Fullers360More ferries in New ZealandWellington → Picton3h 30m · Interislander, BluebridgeMore ferries in New ZealandAuckland → Waiheke Island40m – 50m · Fullers360More ferries in New ZealandAuckland → Rangitoto IslandAbout 25m · Fullers360More ferries in New ZealandHalf Moon Bay (East Auckland) → Waiheke IslandAbout 50m · SeaLink (New Zealand)
🗺 All ferries in New Zealand🔎 Search all routes

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Paihia to Russell?
The crossing typically takes About 15m. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Paihia to Russell ferry sail?
16 departures a day from Paihia in the summer timetable. Summer timetable runs 25 September to 9 May. This is the pattern published in the Northland Ferries Bay of Islands ferry page (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Paihia to Russell?
Northland Ferries operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Paihia to Russell ferry?
No. This is a foot-passenger service and vehicles are not carried. Use parking near the departure pier or public transport to reach it.
Can I take the Paihia to Russell ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Paihia to Russell ferry?
This route has no dedicated pet facilities. Assistance dogs are normally carried, but confirm with the operator before travelling.
How far is Paihia from Russell by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 2 nautical miles (roughly 4 km).