We were welcomed by Shane near the wharf at Paihia as he explained the history of the region with the native population. He suggested that we take the ferry to Russell and book their tour. Did it and thoroughly enjoyed Kelly’s tour.

This was a very worthwhile and well-spent hour. I was the only passenger. This allowed Shane to pitch the information he shared to complement and amplify what I already knew, and broaden my perspectives . He provided excellent geographical, historical, cultural, social and spiritual perspectives to the fabulous natural beauty of Russell and its surrounding area. All this with reverence and respect for me and his subject. He is a natural ambassador for his home. Exemplary and highly recommended. A must. No visit here complete without it.

Shane gave us the best tour ever! He explained Russell history, Māori culture, & showed us fascinating sites throughout the area. Highly recommend this worthwhile & interesting tour! Bravo!

Unfortunately our day in Russell was overcast and wet, however this did not stop us from enjoying a mini tour with our guide Sheryl. Sheryl was a local and was fun, friendly and knowledgeable. She maneuvered the vehicle around some pretty tight spots like a pro, all the while keeping up a running commentary of the sites and history of Russell. Great way to spend an hour on a wet miserable day!

I jumped on the ferry as soon as I arrived in Paihia, straight to Russell, a friend of mine had told me it’s a must visit. On arrival I enquired about the tours, there was one leaving immediately, I declined, coffee & sustenance was required first! Kelly said come back at 2pm, then it started raining … hey ho, I thought, better to be sat on a tour bus when it’s raining. On arriving back at 2pm, I was the only guest, Kelly still insisted on taking me. How lucky am I, my own personal guide, she is a treasure, her knowledge of her island is mind-blowing, it almost took me back at first, trying to process everything, but wow, just wow! As you can see from my pictures, I was truly blessed, the sun came out, what a spectacular and mind enriching hour learning about the history of this incredible, NZ’s first capital. Spend a moment imagining all the drunken sailors lying on the beach when it was know as the ‘Hell Hole’! It’s hard to pick a highlight, but the views were sensational, we packed so much in to that hour and I loved chatting with Kelly. So much did I love this place, that I’m now coming to spend some time here doing Kiwi Conservation!! Here’s to your beautiful Kororareka! Thank you Kelly & Mini Tours 🙏

The views were amazing. So much history relayed to us by host Kelly. She is so knowledgeable. It was so foggy 1st thing in the morning. Kelly advised us to come back at 1pm and she was so correct. The photos I took were beautiful. So interesting. Thank you Kelly. I have yet to download photos, but if you're in Russell take this tour, it's so worth it. You won't be disappointed.

Kelly’s commentary on this 1 hour mini tour was excellent. This town has so much history, both Maori and British and Kelly’s knowledge and sensitive telling of it was interesting and informative. This short tour of her little town made the visit so much more rewarding than just looking at some lovely buildings

An excellent experience. Shane was informative, funny and the perfect guide. History, local experience, passionate environmentalist and very friendly. Thank you for a memorable experience. Highly recommend for Aussie's visiting and wishing to learn more about the region.