Built in 1842, Heritage fans rejoice, Russell has heritage and history in spades. Pompallier Mission originally housed a printery where Church texts were translated from Latin to te reo Māori, then printed and bound. It is just one of several buildings, including a chapel and various outhouses, which once stood in this crowded enclave. Today the Printery stands as New Zealand’s oldest industrial building, as well as the oldest of rammed-earth construction, distinctly French in style and making use of local materials including sand, rock and timber. Pompallier Mission has a restaurant attached. Admission fees apply.
Open Wednesday – Sunday then daily from 6 July, 10am – 4pm. Guided tours at 11am and 2pm. French Coffee House. 10am – 3.30pm.
Admission fees apply for guided tours including printery and garden. Garden-only, accompanied school-age children are free. Access to the printery is by guided tour only to help preserve the building. Please understand that surcharges may apply at times of special events.
