Pompallier Mission and Printery, Russell

Run by Heritage NZ, the guided tour tells the amazing story of this place and the French connections! The building and grounds are beautifully restored. Great morning tea and lunch too!

I am a letterpress printer and I’m interested in history and this place exudes both! We were expertly guided around the printshop, tannery and bindery by Lydia who was very knowledgeable on the subject of printing and the history of Pompallier!

Do not miss the guided tour! I was a bit skeptical as I didn’t think a printing press would be that interesting, but it was FANTASTIC! The past truly comes alive as you get to literally see it in action and even touch some of the original or replica materials. The sordid past of Russell is also revealed through great stories that were totally new to me. Start your day in Russell here; be sure to enjoy a pastry or quiche or sandwich and a coffee as well! Also the gift shop is phenomenal, I bought a book I’m really excited about I haven’t seen anywhere else.

Interesting - I don't usually do the tourist thing, but it was great - hard not to be captured by such a passionate and knowledgeable guide. History was good to know.

Very interesting and informative tour. Learnt a lot about the history of New Zealand and how printing was established. Lovely gardens with many old established fruit trees. Gift shop has lots of great little gift ideas.