Pompallier Mission and Printery building from the front.
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Pompallier Mission and Printery

4.7
·412 reviews·Russell, New Zealand

Historic waterfront mission and printery where early Te Reo Māori books were produced. Offers engaging tours & interactive printing.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mid-morning tours

Beat the midday rush

CrowdLow
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Pompallier Mission and Printery building from the front.

Pompallier Mission and Printery

Best Time

Mid-morning tours

Beat the midday rush

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic waterfront mission and printery where early Te Reo Māori books were produced. Offers engaging tours & interactive printing.

4.7
(412 reviews)

"The guided tour was so interesting and the printing press experience made for a lovely souvenir!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Book a Guided Tour

Highly recommended for in-depth history & interactive printing!

Allow ample time

Factor in ferry travel to Russell & the tour duration.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Printery

Historic Printery

Ground floor

See where thousands of prayer books were printed in Te Reo Māori, a significant feat of early literacy.

TikTok
Interactive Printing Press

Interactive Printing Press

Upstairs

Experience history firsthand by printing your own souvenir on a working 19th-century press.

Reddit
Passionate Guided Tours

Passionate Guided Tours

Engaging tours led by knowledgeable guides bring the mission's history and the region's stories to life.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Factor in Ferry Travel

Pompallier Mission is located in Russell, which requires a ferry ride from Paihia. Account for travel time and ferry schedules to avoid a rushed visit, especially if combining with other Bay of Islands activities. Reddit

Guided Tours are Key

While self-guided tours are available, the guided tours offer deep insights and interactive experiences, like printing your own souvenir. Guides are passionate and knowledgeable, making history come alive. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Mid-morning tours
Why
Beat the midday rush
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
More relaxed pace
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

LFrom 1839, Pompallier Mission and Printery in Kororāreka/Russell was the hub of the Catholic mission in the country, its ground-floor printery producing prayer books in te reo Māori by the thousands. An impressive feat, and first of its kind. Nearly 40,000 books were produced, and literacy developed fast. Pompallier Mission and Printery is idenitified as a Tohu Whenua heritage site. . . . . . ....
tasmantravels
8 likes • 292 views

Book a Guided Tour

Highly recommended for in-depth history & interactive printing! TikTokReddit

Allow ample time

Factor in ferry travel to Russell & the tour duration. Reddit

Pompallier Mission and Printery- pierwsza siedziba misji francuskiej katolickiej na zachodnim Pacyfiku.
sailwithdonna
63 likes • 1.1K views
📍 Pompallier Mission and Printery 🗺️ Kororareka Russell, Te Tai Tokerau Northland 📚 📖 Photos captured by Mark Russell
tohuwhenua
8 likes • 1.7K views

Print your own souvenir

A unique, hands-on experience on the historic printing press. Reddit

Explore the gardens

Beautiful waterfront gardens offer a peaceful escape. Instagram

reddit.com

Northern North Island Final Itinerary Check

Tips

from all over the internet

Book a Guided Tour

Highly recommended for in-depth history & interactive printing! TikTokReddit

Allow ample time

Factor in ferry travel to Russell & the tour duration. Reddit

Print your own souvenir

A unique, hands-on experience on the historic printing press. Reddit

Explore the gardens

Beautiful waterfront gardens offer a peaceful escape. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(412 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently rave about the Pompallier Mission and Printery, particularly highlighting the engaging and informative guided tours led by passionate staff. The interactive printing press experience is a memorable highlight for many. While the location requires a ferry trip, most agree it's a worthwhile excursion for its historical significance and unique activities.

"Had an amazing guided tour with Julie. So much insightful information about the area. Amazing that in this very building in the 1800s 40,000 books were printed and produced in Te Reo within 7 years."

Jah Harris

"Loved it!!! Julie was an exceptional guide. She makes leather from sheep from her family farm. The printing press still works beautifully nearly 200 years on. I highly recommend this tour!"

Rhys Utting

"The Pompallier House blew me away, what a great Kororāreka activity! My partner and I opted for the guided tour which was $20 each, whereas the self-guided tour is $10 each. We had Tracy as a tour guide and they were FABULOUS, so knowledgeable and passionate about the history of the Pompallier House and the region. The tour itself allows you to see much more of the house and is also quite interactive which made it all the more engaging. We were so excited to get to do our own ink press on the upstairs printing press, it made for a lovely souvenir for us to take home with us! This is definitely a must-do for anyone visiting the Bay of Islands region!"

Katie Jagger

What People Like

Engaging guided tours
Interactive printing press
Passionate guides

What People Dislike

Requires ferry travel

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Pompallier Mission is located in Russell. You'll need to take a ferry from Paihia to Russell. The ferry ride is short and frequent, offering scenic views of the bay. Reddit

Parking is available in Russell, but it can be limited, especially during peak season. Consider walking from the ferry terminal to the mission. Instagram

Yes, the mission is a short and pleasant walk from the Russell ferry terminal. It's well-signposted. Instagram

Ferry services between Paihia and Russell typically run frequently throughout the day. It's best to check the latest schedule with the ferry operator before your visit. Reddit

The ground floor of the mission is generally accessible. However, some areas, particularly upstairs, may have limited accessibility due to the historic nature of the building. It's advisable to inquire directly about specific accessibility needs. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on operating hours. TikTok

There are different ticket options, including self-guided and guided tours. Guided tours are more expensive but highly recommended for the full experience. Reddit

Yes, tickets are typically available for purchase upon arrival at the mission. However, booking in advance, especially for guided tours, might be advisable during busy periods. Reddit

Information on discounts for seniors, students, or families may be available. It's best to check their website or inquire at the ticket counter. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking guided tours in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot and ensure availability. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Explore heritage exhibits, learn about the printing press, and enjoy guided tours that delve into the mission's history and its role in the region. You can also print your own souvenir. TikTokReddit

Guided tours typically last around 45-60 minutes, offering a comprehensive overview of the mission's history and significance. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect artifacts. Always check for signage or ask staff. Instagram

Yes, restroom facilities are usually available for visitors. Instagram

The printery was crucial in producing thousands of books in Te Reo Māori, contributing significantly to literacy and the spread of Catholicism in early New Zealand. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Pompallier Mission and Printery itself does not typically have a cafe or restaurant. However, Russell offers several dining options nearby. Instagram

Russell has a variety of cafes and restaurants offering local cuisine, seafood, and international dishes. You can find options ranging from casual to more formal dining. Instagram

While you can't typically eat inside the historic building, you might be able to enjoy a picnic in the surrounding gardens or nearby public areas. Check for designated picnic spots. Instagram

Most restaurants in Russell are likely to offer vegetarian options, and many are increasingly catering to vegan diets. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff. Instagram

Many visitors enjoy the waterfront restaurants in Russell for their views and fresh seafood. Exploring the main street of Russell will reveal various charming eateries. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the historic building's architecture, the working printing press, the beautiful gardens, and the waterfront views of Russell. Instagram

Yes, you can photograph the printing press and the demonstration. If you participate, you can also capture yourself printing your souvenir. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, flash photography may be prohibited in certain areas to preserve artifacts. Instagram

Morning light can be beautiful for the exterior and gardens. Midday can be good for capturing the interior details, but be mindful of crowds. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in historic sites and populated areas. It's essential to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Pompallier Mission offers a unique and engaging experience for families. The interactive printing press is a huge hit with children, allowing them to create their own tangible souvenir. The guided tours, led by enthusiastic guides, can keep younger minds captivated with stories and demonstrations. Reddit

Consider the ferry ride to Russell as part of the adventure. Once there, the mission is a manageable size for exploring with kids. The beautiful gardens also provide a nice space for a short break. Remember to factor in travel time to avoid overtiring little ones. Reddit

📚 History Buffs

For those fascinated by early colonial history and the development of New Zealand, Pompallier Mission is a must-visit. The groundbreaking printing press and its output of Te Reo Māori books are of immense historical significance. The guided tours provide in-depth historical context and fascinating anecdotes that will satisfy any history enthusiast. TikTokReddit

Pay close attention to the details shared by the guides about the mission's role in the cultural and religious landscape of 19th-century New Zealand. The building itself is a piece of history, offering a glimpse into the past. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The Pompallier Mission and Printery offers a variety of photographic opportunities. Capture the historic architecture of the 1842 building, the intricate details of the working printing press, and the charming waterfront gardens in Russell. Instagram

Morning light can be ideal for exterior shots and the gardens, while the interior offers opportunities for capturing historical artifacts and the printing demonstration. Be mindful of any restrictions on flash photography. The ferry ride itself also provides scenic shots of the Bay of Islands. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Printery: A Hub of Early Literacy

The Pompallier Mission and Printery is renowned for its groundbreaking role in early New Zealand printing. Established in 1842, its ground-floor printery was the first of its kind in the country. Here, under the direction of Bishop Pompallier, an astonishing 40,000 books were produced in just seven years, primarily prayer books and religious texts. This prolific output played a crucial role in developing literacy among Māori and disseminating Catholic teachings. The fact that the printing press still functions today is a testament to its historical significance and enduring craftsmanship. TikTokReddit

Visitors can witness this history firsthand, with the opportunity to participate in printing their own souvenir. This interactive element makes the experience incredibly engaging, allowing a tangible connection to the past. The guides often share fascinating anecdotes about the printing process and the impact it had on the community, making it a highlight for many. Reddit

The mission's contribution to Te Reo Māori literature cannot be overstated. By printing in the indigenous language, Pompallier Mission actively supported its use and preservation during a formative period in New Zealand's history. This aspect is often highlighted by guides, adding another layer of appreciation for the site's cultural importance. TikTok

Guided Tours: Unlocking the Stories

The guided tours at Pompallier Mission are consistently praised by visitors for their quality and depth. Guides like Julie and Dawn are frequently mentioned for their passion, knowledge, and engaging storytelling. They don't just recite facts; they weave narratives that bring the 1840s to life, sharing insights into the daily lives of the missionaries and the local Māori community. Reddit

These tours offer a much richer experience than a self-guided visit. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the building's architecture, the historical context of the mission, and the significance of its various artifacts. The interactive elements, such as the printing press demonstration, are often exclusive to guided tours, making them a worthwhile investment. Reddit

Many reviewers highlight the personal touch of the guides, noting how they take the time to answer questions and tailor the experience. Some guides even share personal connections to the region or crafts, like making leather from their own farm, adding a unique and memorable dimension to the tour. Reddit

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