The Duke of Marlborough Hotel

4.5 star property
Colonial hotel with a fitness center and a 24-hour front desk

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Photo gallery for The Duke of Marlborough Hotel

Breakfast, lunch, dinner served; local cuisine, beach views
Waterfront Room | Water view
View from property
View from property
Breakfast, lunch, dinner served; local cuisine, beach views

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • Gym
  • 24/7 front desk
  • Housekeeping
  • Parking included

Explore the area

View in a map
35 The Strand, Bay of Islands, Russell, 0255
  • Place, Russell Beach
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Russell Christ Church
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Flagstaff Hill
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Airport, Kerikeri (KKE-Bay of Islands)
    ‪50 min drive‬

Room options

Waterfront Room

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
(8 reviews)
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Small Room

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(12 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Superior King Balcony

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(16 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Premium Room Seaview

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • Sea view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Superior Room, Courtyard

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bed

Classic Room, Courtyard

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(8 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Classic Room

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(7 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed OR 1 King Bed

Waterfront Apartment

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed

About the neighborhood

Russell

The Duke of Marlborough Hotel places you next to Russell Beach and within a 5-minute walk of other popular sights like Russell Museum. This 38-room, 4.5-star hotel has a restaurant along with conveniences like free in-room WiFi and free self parking.

What's nearby

  • Russell Beach - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Russell Christ Church - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Flagstaff Hill - 10 min walk - 0.6 miles
  • Long Beach - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Paihia Wharf - 26 min drive - 9.3 miles

Getting around

  • Kerikeri (KKE-Bay of Islands) - 55 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪El Cafe - ‬26 min drive
  • ‪Paihia Sports Bar - ‬27 min drive
  • ‪CBK Craft Bar & Kitchen - ‬27 min drive
  • ‪Hone's Garden - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Bad Habits - ‬27 min drive

About this property

The Duke of Marlborough Hotel

Colonial hotel with a fitness center and a 24-hour front desk
Guests of The Duke of Marlborough Hotel enjoy a gym, free WiFi in public areas, and meeting rooms. If you plan to drive, free parking is available. The 24-hour front desk has staff standing by to help with tours/tickets and securing valuables. Other amenities at this luxury hotel include a garden, a banquet hall, and wedding services.
Plasma TVs come with satellite channels, and free WiFi keeps guests connected. Bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries. Other amenities include iPod docks, refrigerators, and electric kettles.
Recreational amenities at the hotel include a fitness center.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Awards and affiliations

Eco-Certified Property
This property participates in Qualmark Sustainable Tourism Business Award, a program that measures the property's impact on one or more of the following: environment, community, cultural-heritage, the local economy.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free secured, uncovered self parking on site
  • Limited onsite parking (max 1 space per unit)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant

Restaurants on site

  • Duke of Marlborough

Things to do

  • Gym

Family friendly

  • In-room refrigerator

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Guidebooks
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Tour and ticket assistance
  • Wedding services

Business services

  • 2 meeting rooms

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • On the waterfront

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 1 accessible parking space
  • Elevator (35 inch wide door)
  • Front entrance ramp
  • Visual alarms in hallways
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking

More

  • 2 floors
  • Banquet hall
  • Built in 1827
  • Colonial architecture
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • iPod dock
  • Plasma TV with cable/satellite channels

Food and drink

  • Electric kettle
  • Refrigerator
  • Restaurant dining guides

More

  • Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
  • Heating (climate-controlled)
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3 PM; Check-in end time: 9 PM
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10 AM

Special check-in instructions

The property charges 2.45 percent for credit card payments
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
If you are planning to arrive after 9:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

  • Children stay free when using existing bedding
  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for NZD 50.0 per day

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Rollaway bed fee: NZD 50.0 per day
  • Credit card charges are subject to a surcharge of 2.45 percent

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve high chair
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Noise-free guestrooms cannot be guaranteed
Safety features at this property include a smoke detector
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Check-in: 3 PM—-9 PM
  • Check-out: 10 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. Driving? This property offers free parking.
Property Registration Number 9429042359616

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve high chair.
  • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
  • This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
  • Onsite safety features include a smoke detector.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • Some facilities may be restricted. For more details, contact the property. Contact information can be found on your booking confirmation.
  • Noise-free rooms can't be guaranteed.
  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

National rating

Rating provided by Qualmark®, source of official star ratings for accommodation in New Zealand.

Property is also known as

Duke Marlborough Hotel
Duke Marlborough Hotel Russell
Duke Marlborough Russell
The Duke Of Marlborough
The Duke of Marlborough Hotel Hotel
The Duke of Marlborough Hotel Russell
The Duke of Marlborough Hotel Hotel Russell

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at The Duke of Marlborough Hotel?

The Duke of Marlborough Hotel provides free cancellation on certain room rates. For additional details, review the cancellation policy on our site.

What is there to do around The Duke of Marlborough Hotel?

This hotel is located in Russell, just steps from Bay of Islands and Russell Beach, and within a short walk of Tapeka Point. You'll also find Flagstaff Hill and Long Beach less than a mile away.

Is parking available on site at The Duke of Marlborough Hotel?

Yes, secured self parking is offered for free at the hotel. Though parking is limited per unit, accessible parking is also available. You'll find a max of 1 space per unit.

Does The Duke of Marlborough Hotel include a casino?

No, The Duke of Marlborough Hotel doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at The Duke of Marlborough Hotel?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

What amenities will couples enjoy at The Duke of Marlborough Hotel?

At this waterfront hotel, couples will appreciate amenities like a bar plus some guestrooms include kitchenettes and sea views.

Are there hot tubs at The Duke of Marlborough Hotel?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this hotel.

Does The Duke of Marlborough Hotel have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

Yes, The Duke of Marlborough Hotel serves breakfast for a surcharge at Duke of Marlborough.

Will The Duke of Marlborough Hotel allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at The Duke of Marlborough Hotel.

Are there connecting rooms at The Duke of Marlborough Hotel?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this hotel.

Where is the closest airport to The Duke of Marlborough Hotel?

The closest major airport to The Duke of Marlborough Hotel is Kerikeri (KKE-Bay of Islands), which is 24.1 mi away (55 minutes by car).

Can I book a room with a balcony at The Duke of Marlborough Hotel?

Yes, some guestrooms at this hotel offer either a balcony or a deck where guests can enjoy sea or city views.

Does The Duke of Marlborough Hotel have a wedding venue?

If wedding bells are in your future, take advantage of the wedding venue at The Duke of Marlborough Hotel.

The Duke of Marlborough Hotel Reviews

Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 549 out of 841 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 223 out of 841 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 48 out of 841 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 15 out of 841 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 6 out of 841 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

9.2/10

Amenities

8.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Mathew

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Danny

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
This is a classic hotel in a stand-out location. The dinner we had was very good and at a reasonable price. The room was comfortable and quiet and the bed very cozy. My only concern is the lack of seating available from the bar at peak times and there was a substantial queue at the bar. The staff though were always very friendly.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Marty

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Overall package was the best in Russel and we felt it was competitively priced.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sandy

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Its always comfortable and very central on the waterfront. Walking distance to shops, restaurants and ferry. A lovely historic place. Also the staff were very friendly and helpful
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

John

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Craig

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sylvia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Just perfect!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

jane

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Always love staying at The Duke . Being winter spent a bit more time in the hotel so booked a larger room with balcony . Very comfortable with the usual Duke high level of appointment
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lesley

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Lovely spacious room comfortable bed , very clean.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Terry

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service

10/10 Excellent

Dave

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Honest bicultural heritage on a daily basis. Celebrating the history even though it was revealingly disgusting behaviour by the colonists. It is great to reflect that, from such treacherous behaviour by the people from the invading territories, the indigenous people survived and their stories are now being told from a lived perspective. The Duke of Marlborough is a memorial to all that has happened, is rich in history and has an honest place in the present and the future. Great work team. I loved the daily newsletter which celebrates biculturalism.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Maree

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ron

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The Duke of Marlborough oozes "old world charm" and has wonderful staff and excellent chefs. Our one disappointment was being charged a 15% surcharge on a Public Holiday for food and drinks - those staying at the Hotel should be excused this surcharge.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Fabulous place

Fabulous accommodation in great location. Comfortable room with all the amenities
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Maraea

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I liked it all and I will be back in the future
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

8/10 Good

Francisco

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Lovely hotel.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jon

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Albertus

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
My guests enjoyed their stay
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

phil

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
character
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

BEV

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sue

Liked: Property conditions & facilities
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Heather

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Waterfront stay in Russell

Immediately beside the Duke of Marlborough is their Waterfront Apartment called 'The Bungalow'. Nice to be at ground level with our own little courtyard. Fabulous Apartment furnished beautifully and Art depicting the location on the walls. Well supplied kitchenette. Excellent dinner and breakfast on the deck of 'Duke'. We blessed the peacefulness of the area in the shoulder season.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Roger, Warkworth

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Excellent Hotel. Only shortcoming was the lack of a lift near front entrance/reception
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Anita

Traveled with partner, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Loved this place , highly recommended, staff very friendly and helpfull , we were there for a 60th wedding anniversary and it was well organized , we stayed the night aawell , the rooms were clean comfy and full of small nods to the past , fantastic!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Na
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025