The Duke of Marlborough Hotel

One of my favourite old Kiwi hotels, this is an amazing place for a drink or meal, with a view right out to the Bay of Islands. It's a stunning spot, and this history-filled hotel is the perfect place to sit back and take it all in. The hotel may be pure Kiwi history, but the hospitality is world-class with great food and service. Perfection.

Their chips are to die for! You get a big bowl of chunky chips with green herb salt, generously served with tomato sauce AND aioli! At $9 a pop it’s one of the budget-friendly ways to enjoy the Duke as well.

The Duke is one of my favourite eateries in Northland. It's an interesting mix of traditional and modern while managing to keep a comfortable, family feel with silver service. I'd recommend one of their ever-changing cuts of meat. They cooked my steak to a perfectly succulent and seasoned medium-rare. It's fit for all occasions (particularly the special ones) so take your loved ones and get ravenous in Russell with The Duke!

Awarded the Beef + Lamb NZ excellence award for four years running, The Duke is a sure bet for a mouthwatering, creative take on what New Zealand does best – think lamb sirloin with Kerikeri macadamia dukkah and couscous, Houhora scotch fillet on the bone with scallion & potato crush, sautéed zucchini & chimichurri salsa, and much more - and in beautiful Russell, no less.