The Duke of Marlborough Hotel

4.5 star property

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Photo gallery for The Duke of Marlborough Hotel

Breakfast, lunch, dinner served; local cuisine, beach views
Front of property
Breakfast, lunch, dinner served; local cuisine, beach views
Premium Room Seaview | View from room
Breakfast, lunch, dinner served; local cuisine, beach views

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant
  • Air conditioning
  • Gym
  • Business services

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)
    ‪45 min drive‬

Room options

Waterfront Room

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

Small Room

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(15 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Superior King Balcony

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(25 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Premium Room Seaview

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(4 reviews)
  • Sea view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Superior Room, Courtyard

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

Classic Room, Courtyard

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

Classic Room

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(11 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed OR 1 King Bed

Waterfront Apartment

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 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
  • Russell Museum - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Flagstaff Hill - 10 min walk - 0.6 miles
  • Long Beach - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Orange Frog - ‬27 min drive
  • ‪Charlotte's Kitchen - ‬28 min drive
  • ‪Duke of Marlborough Hotel - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪CBK Craft Bar & Kitchen - ‬27 min drive
  • ‪Mako Beach Bar - ‬26 min drive

About this property

The Duke of Marlborough Hotel

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 securing valuables and tours/tickets. Other amenities at this luxury hotel include a garden, wedding services, and a banquet hall.
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.

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 self 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
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

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.

How much does it cost to stay at The Duke of Marlborough Hotel?

As of Mar 28, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Duke of Marlborough Hotel on Apr 12, 2026 start from $91, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

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.

Will I be able to park 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 do couples enjoy most about The Duke of Marlborough Hotel?

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

Does The Duke of Marlborough Hotel have a hot tub?

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, this hotel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

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).

Are there rooms with balconies 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. 607 out of 921 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 241 out of 921 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 50 out of 921 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 16 out of 921 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 7 out of 921 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

9.0/10

Amenities

8.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

8/10 Good

James

Liked: Staff & service
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Our hotel room was immaculate, spacious and comfortable and it was enhanced by a balcony overlooking the harbour.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Mairi

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

8/10 Good

Catherine

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
To see beach you had to look around the corner of the window. Our view was actually neighbouring properties roof. But room was clean, comfortable and we still enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Len, Oakland

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff was great, and bungalow we stayed in was lovely. Adjacent to hotel, room had jetted tub with shower plus kitchenette. Water front view was lively albeit 5 minute parking space in front for checkin sometimes had cars blocking our view. The restaurant dinner for sunset was lovely and food was excellent.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Brian

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Staff courteous and friendly Room clean/ appreciated room made up during 2night stay
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Leah

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Excellent large room right on the waterfront. Clean, fresh, light, in the centre of town. Comfy bed and nice sheets.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

4/10 Poor

Stuart

Traveled with partner
Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Cleanliness
Room was not serviced properly in advance of our booking in. We found an article of clothing belinging to the previous guest - handed it in at reception and received an apology. Said they would speak to the clesning staff. There was a sickening stench of rotten fish in our part of the hotel from the time we arrived until we left 2 days later. When we advised reception of this they again apologised and advised that they had received several other complaints regarding the same thing. No update was given and the smell was hard to tolerate either in our room or sitting out on the balcony. Hotel seems to be run for the convenience of the staff and not the comfort of the guests. Patronising waitress at lunchtime on the verandah. Having one menu is advertised as a good thing when in fact if staying a couple of days it means a lack of choice. Breakfast staff were freindly and attentive but scrambled eggs were watery and 'toast' was fried bread which was very greasy. We had booked to stsy fir a special occasion but were very disappointed overall. Would not recommend this hotel for a stay of more than one night.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brian

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
All good, hotel and room fantastic
Sunset
Sunset
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

carrie

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean quiet and comfortable. Loved having a balcony and we enjoyed our meals at the restaurant. We love this area amd this hotel.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025

6/10 Okay

julia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
The mattress was pasr its use by date Not much support, saggy snd very soft
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

2/10 Terrible

denis

Disliked: Amenities
We had a cosy room which was stuffy but the windows could not be opened. When we complained it was dismissed and ignored.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

ROBERT

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Lovely room in a handy location, perfect for my needs
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Glenys

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Loved the historical presence of this beautiful hotel. Attention to detail with the furnishings was outstanding. We had room 2 on the ground floor. We found the bathroom was beautifully presented but not terribly functional. Nowhere to put dry clothes except the top of the toilet. The whole floor got wet when showering, even with the shower curtain closed. I know this bathroom is probably for someone disabled but they still need somewhere to put dry clothing. If the room is for a disabled person, not sure how they can get round the bed comfortably. Air-conditioning was so loud at night, i had to keep getting up to turn it off so i could get some sleep and then back on because the room got so hot.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julia

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christer

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michele

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A truly unique hotel from another era!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Anthony

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice stay Have the internal rooms with shared courtyard may need a rethink. We had trouble sleeping as other guests were out in the courtyard till late having a chat
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Michael

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Bit like living in a piece of history far better than modern hotels. Room was good and also a small seating area outside for us to enjoy. Used the restaurant and it's easy to see why it's popular, nice food
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Neville

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room very clean. Hotel in a great position to restaurants, shops and the harbour. Staff very helpful.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kerry

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful historic hotel in a charming old former whaling port. Clean and comfortable rooms. We had a large patio and jettted tub. Great restaurant downstairs!! Friendly staff! Would love to stay here again!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Anke

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
TV reception was a little problematic. Slept well the first 2 nights but the last night had a lot of corridor noise from a party of travelers.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Sue

Traveled with partner
Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The views from the front bedrooms of the property are stunning.Food is excellent with good selection.Parking is good although it is at the back,of the property,across the road.However it seems to be secure. Overall we had a wonderful stay at the Duke of Marlborough.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Barbro

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Lovely place and an excellent restaurant
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mark

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A lovely hotel with friendly and helpful staff. Our room was very comfortable and good value.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025