The Duke Of Marlborough

Hotels
8.9 (2218 reviews)
35 The Strand , Russell , nz

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Free
Children allowed

Facilities

Offsite parking discounted rates available
Electric bicycle charging station
Fitness facilities (surcharge)
Parking
Non-smoking rooms
Air conditioning
Restaurant
Terrace
Lift / Elevator
Fax/photocopying
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 2218 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
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
C
Chris • couple • nz
10
A fantastic boutique experience that compliements the wonderful town of Russell perfectly.
Pros:

The whole experience was exceptional, from the staff, to the food, to the cocktails! Not to mention the best sunset views from the restaurant.

2026-06-18 • via Nuitee
M
Mark William • extended_group • nz
3
People great. Stayeyed here over 55 years and feel in servants quarter over the back.
Pros:

Tomorrow.

Cons:

Room to small. King bed one chair. No table. Shower nightmare. No wine glasses.

2026-06-17 • via Nuitee
H
HELEN • couple • nz
8
Pros:

location, atmosphere

2026-06-16 • via Nuitee
I
Ian • solo_traveller • au
9
Pros:

Lounge area and the food

Cons:

Carpark location with luggage

2026-06-16 • via Nuitee
S
Sarah • solo_traveller • nz
9
Perfect for a one night stay where you can dine in the hotel restaurant. Staff were outstanding.
Pros:

Beautiful setting & loved staying in a grand old hotel with plenty of character & style.

2026-06-16 • via Nuitee
M
Murray • couple • au
10
2026-06-15 • via Nuitee
E
Eve • solo_traveller • nz
10
Pros:

Beautiful views and atmosphere right in the heart of Russell on the waterfront.

2026-06-14 • via Nuitee
A
Alexandra • couple • nz
10
2026-06-14 • via Nuitee
L
Lawrence • couple • au
10
Amazing location food and staff
Pros:

Location , food, front of house staff were amazing especially Bianca from Transylvania

2026-06-14 • via Nuitee
G
Geoffrey • couple • nz
9
2026-06-13 • via Nuitee
A
Anita • couple • nz
7
Good
Pros:

Location was ideal for us to not have to worry about getting the ferry home.

Cons:

The noise around the property.

2026-06-13 • via Nuitee
D
Dean • extended_group • nz
8
2026-06-13 • via Nuitee
D
Deborah • couple • nz
10
2026-06-12 • via Nuitee
G
Gregory • couple • nz
9
Great
Cons:

Evening dinner menu

2026-06-07 • via Nuitee
G
George • couple • gb
9
2026-06-06 • via Nuitee
A
Antony • couple • nz
9
2026-06-05 • via Nuitee
S
Sue • extended_group • nz
8
The hotel was gorgeous, apart from size of room and lack of trim milk, it was a thumbs up.
Pros:

Food was excellent. My room was far too small, which I did not realise when booking.

Cons:

Couldn't have a coffee or tea as you did not have Trim milk, had to go to the local cafe for a hot drink.

2026-06-02 • via Nuitee