The Duke Of Marlborough

Hotels
8.9 (2252 reviews)
35 The Strand , Russell , nz

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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

Property Policies

  • Groups

    When booking more than 4 rooms, different policies and additional supplements may apply.

  • Internet

    WiFi is available in all areas and is free of charge.

  • Pets

    Pets are not allowed.

  • Parking

    Free private parking is possible at a location nearby (reservation is not needed).

  • Children and extra bed policy

    Children of any age are allowed.
    Children up to and including 2 years old stay for free when using an available cot.
    Children up to and including 17 years old stay for NZD 35 per person per night when using an existing bed.
    Children up to and including 11 years old stay for free when using an available extra bed.
    Children from 12 years old to 16 years old stay for NZD 50 per person per night when using an available extra bed.
    Any type of extra bed or child's cot/crib is upon request and needs to be confirmed by management.
    Supplements are not calculated automatically in the total costs and will have to be paid for separately during your stay.

Location

Guest Reviews

8.9
Based on 2252 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
Joyce • solo_traveller • au
7
Pros:

Location & staff.

Cons:

Small room

2026-07-09 • via Nuitee
R
Renee • couple • nz
8
Very nice, we will be back,
Pros:

Lovely atmosphere, great food in the restaurant

Cons:

The shower is tiny and water goes all over the floor. Plunger coffee in the room would have been a nice touch. And wine glasses.

2026-07-09 • via Nuitee
S
Sarah • solo_traveller • nz
7
2026-07-05 • via Nuitee
N
Nicky • couple • nz
10
Best times at the Duke. Great location, great people & beautiful rooms.
Pros:

Best location for a relaxing holiday. Such a great spot!

2026-07-05 • via Nuitee
L
Luke • couple • nz
5
2026-07-04 • via Nuitee
K
Kerry • couple • au
10
Relaxing in luxury.
Pros:

Beautiful location, amazing views, room was spacious and comfortable, staff were exceptional.

2026-07-01 • via Nuitee
E
Evan • solo_traveller • nz
10
2026-06-29 • via Nuitee
R
Richard • couple • nz
8
2026-06-28 • via Nuitee
P
pat • couple • nz
9
Pros:

It was very clean and tidy, and central

2026-06-26 • via Nuitee
R
Richard • couple • nz
10
2026-06-26 • via Nuitee
K
Keitha • solo_traveller • nz
9
Pros:

Loved the position, close to everything.

Cons:

No problems

2026-06-26 • via Nuitee
J
Jannene • couple • nz
10
2026-06-24 • via Nuitee
P
Parusi • couple • nz
10
Awesome
Pros:

Staff were super helpful and always available.

Cons:

Nothing

2026-06-23 • via Nuitee
J
Josh • couple • nz
10
Lovely location . Amazing food and service
Pros:

Location

Cons:

Nothing

2026-06-22 • via Nuitee
S
Spencer • solo_traveller • nz
9
Been multiple times, will keep coming back. A place with heart and soul.
Pros:

It's the nicest, coolest, comfortable, unique and warmest hotel you will ever stay in. The decor, the history, the crew, the vibe...I love this place

Cons:

The execution of the d8nner menu was outstanding, I absolutely loved the fish of the day dish and the deep fried eggplant was banging. However, things get a bit limited if you're not a seafood fan.

2026-06-22 • via Nuitee
W
Wallace • couple • au
10
Stayed here 20 years ago and the improvement in the building was magnificent whilst still keeping th
Pros:

Location of room over looking bay was perfect, Staff incredibly friendly, atmosphere beautiful.
Russell is a pretty town. Tour booking was easy and fun

Cons:

Nothing

2026-06-22 • via Nuitee
B
Beverley • solo_traveller • nz
8
Pros:

Lovely room, great staff.

Cons:

Nothing all was lovely

2026-06-21 • via Nuitee
H
Helen & Christopher • solo_traveller • nz
10
Pros:

Excellent location

2026-06-20 • via Nuitee
A
ainie • couple • nz
8
Pros:

Quiet n private yet close to shops

2026-06-20 • via Nuitee
A
alison • solo_traveller • au
10
2026-06-18 • via Nuitee