The Duke Of Marlborough

Hotels
8.9 (2296 reviews)
35 The Strand , Russell , NZ
+64 9 403 7829

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Free
Children allowed

Facilities

Fitness facilities
WiFi available
Free WiFi
Parking
Free Parking
Non-smoking rooms
Air conditioning
Fitness center
24-hour front desk
Restaurant
See all facilities

Review Highlights

Pros:
Great location
Well-equipped rooms
Friendly staff
Nice amenities
Cons:
Inconsistent service
Average food quality
Some rooms tired

Categories

Cleanliness
8.9
Rooms were noted as clean, but some were described as 'a little tired'.
Service
9.16
While some staff were mentioned positively, there were instances of poor service at reception.
Location
9.6
Multiple reviews emphasize the fantastic location with stunning views.
Room Quality
8.86
Rooms were well equipped and comfortable, with some mentioning a desire for better room features.
Amenities
8.89
Amenities such as a gym and parking were appreciated, but specifics on others were not provided.
Value for Money
8.35
Some reviews indicated pricing may not match the food quality.
Food and Beverage
8.2
Food quality received mixed reviews, with some meals considered average.
Overall Experience
9.26
A range of positive experiences were shared, highlighting a fondness for the hotel despite some minor issues.
* This sentiment is summarized by AI based on user reviews.
Updated at: 2026-01-07 15:11

Property Description

Waterfront 19th-Century Charm:
Experience the enchanting Duke Hotel, a historic gem perched on the waterfront of the Bay of Islands. Revel in its elegant guest lounge, restaurant, and garden bar, alongside a convenient gymnasium.

Modern Comfort with Bay Views:
Indulge in rooms adorned with modern decor and a touch of tradition. Each room boasts a refrigerator, satellite TV, and for some lucky guests, a private balcony with breathtaking bay views.

Culinary Delights and Local Wines:
Savor New Zealand's finest at The Duke of Marlborough's restaurant, specializing in locally sourced seafood. Wash down the flavors with a selection of regional wines at the scenic House Bar by the water.

Book now to immerse yourself in history and luxury at The Duke of Marlborough - your gateway to Russell's treasures.

Important information:

Guests planning to arrive outside regular front desk hours are requested to inform the hotel in advance. Contact details can be found in the booking confirmation.Please inform of your expected arrival time in advance. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly using the contact details in your confirmation.
Guests are required to show a photo ID and credit card upon check-in. Please note that all Special Requests are subject to availability and additional charges may apply.
A deposit may be required at the property.

Check-in and check-out hours:
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Airport code: KKE

Location

Guest Reviews

8.9
Based on 2296 reviews
Cleanliness: 8.9
Service: 9.16
Location: 9.6
Room Quality: 8.86
Amenities: 8.89
Value for Money: 8.35
Food and Beverage: 8.2
Overall Experience: 9.26
J
Janene • couple • nz
10
Pros:

Everything, service was exceptional.

Cons:

Nothing

2026-10-23 • via Nuitee
M
Mary Ann • couple • nz
10
Pros:

Was upgraded to King room. 😊 the rooms are exceptional in decor and the little details like Harney and Sons teabag, soft dressing gowns and luxurious toiletries in the bathroom.
The food in the restaurant was delicious. Had a wonderful stay.

Cons:

Nothing.

2026-10-23 • via Nuitee
M
Maureen • couple • nz
8
Pleasant with great location and views
Pros:

Breakfast adequate but not good and limited menu
Location very good

Cons:

Shower pressure in bathroom - weak

2026-10-21 • via Nuitee
M
Melinda • couple • au
10
2026-10-20 • via Nuitee
C
collin • couple • fr
9
2026-10-20 • via Nuitee
C
Carol • couple • nz
9
A pleasant experience
Pros:

Cosy & quiet

Cons:

More bath towels

2026-10-18 • via Nuitee
W
Warwick • couple • nz
8
Pros:

Very handy

2026-10-18 • via Nuitee
J
Julie • couple • nz
7
Pros:

Location

Cons:

Having someone unlock our door and walk in! Some mix up and second set of keys were given out. Not a great system in place for that to happen! A little disappointed as it was inappropriate to have strangers walk into your room...for them and us.

2026-10-16 • via Nuitee
K
Kydd • couple • nz
10
2026-10-15 • via Nuitee
N
Nicoline • couple • nl
8
Pros:

History, location and staff

2026-10-14 • via Nuitee
L
Lucy • couple • nz
8
Nice and relaxing to be right by the sea. At times it felt the staff didn’t know what was going on at dinner time.
Pros:

Right on ocean front

Cons:

Staff a bit all over the place

2026-10-14 • via Nuitee
B
Becker • extended_group • au
10
Loved Russell. Such a beautiful spot. Everyone should visit it and stay at the Duke.
Pros:

Fantastic. Beautiful building right across from the water. Lovely town and area.

Cons:

Nothing

2026-10-13 • via Nuitee
L
Lori • couple • us
10
Pros:

Charm

2026-10-12 • via Nuitee
D
Denise • couple • nz
10
Mesmorized at the Marlborough....
Pros:

What can I say - a building I believe is 199 years old - and modernised to the highest standard with a history that speaks to you from every wall . This was a great stay in a great place in a great location . The modern features are beautiful you can tell alot of thought has gone into making DoM a treat - and the restaurant , you must eat there , it's awesome ......

2026-10-09 • via Nuitee
F
Fred • couple • nl
8
2026-10-08 • via Nuitee
P
Paula • solo_traveller • nz
10
2026-10-07 • via Nuitee
K
Keith • couple • nz
5
Ruined by the fire alarm.
Pros:

Roomy. balcony.

Cons:

The fire alarm was probably unavoidable. The FIRE exits are not obvious. Exit signs should mean FIRE exit. There should be more boards in the passageways and hotel instruction manual. I looked before the fire alarm and couldn't find.

2026-09-18 • via Nuitee
E
Elliot • couple • nz
10
2026-09-15 • via Nuitee
C
Colin • couple • nz
10
Very nice hotel, staff was excellent. Service excellent
Pros:

Breakfast was excellent

Cons:

All was excellent

2026-09-12 • via Nuitee
D
David • solo_traveller • nz
10
My favourite hotel in New Zealand. It doesn’t get any better than a weekend in Russell at the Duke
2026-09-10 • via Nuitee