This property had been bought and developed 35 years ago, when the first owners could pick and choose in the then relatively undeveloped Russell, and they certainly picked one of the best views and secluded properties. We bought the property in 2008, we then demolished (except for a small part) the original building and purpose built Bellrock Lodge. We have incorporated lovely New Zealand woods into our floors, doors and stairs, yet you will get the feel of South Africa (where we were both born and raised) in our Black- and Stinkwood furniture, our paintings which reflect the different SA cultures, fauna/flora, landscapes and birds of South Africa. Other objects de art, reflect our travels, from the brass bell from Nepal (weighing 8 kgs - how I used to get away with that at the airports I have no idea) at the front door - to the papyrus paintings from Egypt and the wooden hand carved mirror frames from Zanzibar. We share our home with Tigger and Tomcat, who came over with us from South Africa in 2008 and Shaka, a beautiful black labrador, born and bred in New Zealand.

From Bellrock Lodge it is a 5 minute stroll down to village, where you will find good restaurants, cafes,pubs and gift shops. Pompallier Mission is a must do, visit Christ Church (oldest church still in use in NZ - survived the war between te British and Maori as did Pompallier) as well as Russell Museum. Russell wharf is where you go for the following water based tours: Cream Trip (full day trip) R. Tucker Thompson (Sailing) Dolphin Cruise and Hole in the Rock, full or half day fishing, numerous sailing options, diving and parasailing. Here you also board the passenger ferry to Paihia and the Waiting Treaty Grounds (includes a Maori cultural show, historic tour and museum). Enjoy wine? - vineyards within 15 to an hour drive away. Enjoy a game of golf at Waiting, Kerikeri or Kauri Cliffs courses. Interesting and fun full day bus tours to Cape Reinga. There are a number of walking tracks for the fitter guests.