Christ Church Russell / Te Whare Karakia o Kororāreka is New Zealand’s oldest existing church and possibly the oldest building still used for its original purpose.

Its beginnings go back to the earliest years of Maori European contact in the Bay of Islands when missionaries from across the harbour at the Paihia mission station rowed across to take services in private homes. You can discover more of our history by selecting the ‘History’ tab.

Today we strive to be a living invitation to an inclusive, faith-inspired and prayerful Christian community, embracing the future, respecting our heritage. This mission has developed as we have evolved.

From 1998, local people took over from reliance on the role of a visiting regional priest, and formed a Local Shared Ministry team. The sharing and drawing out of individuals' gifts encouraged a community-minded ministry of all, creating a deeply embedded team kaupapa (character).  It has strengthened the resources and resolve of a small congregation, and sustained the move in 2023 to a parish structure in the more traditional diocesan model, with a "priest in charge" now, once again known as The Vicar.

We celebrate our taonga, our treasure, which is the pulse at the heart of the Russell community, especially when major township events or celebrations occur.  All are warmly welcomed here.