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Historic house · Russell (Kororāreka), Northland
Pompallier Mission
Former headquarters of the French Catholic mission in Russell, dating from 1842, with the workshop where books in the Māori language were printed and leather was tanned for bookbinding.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Pompallier Mission
The Pompallier Mission sits at the water’s edge at the southern end of Russell’s waterfront. It was built in 1841–1842 by the French Catholic mission led by Bishop Jean-Baptiste Pompallier. The rammed-earth (taipa) and timber building is the oldest Catholic building in New Zealand and is now managed by Heritage New Zealand.
The house operated as a printworks, tannery and bookbinding workshop. Religious books, catechisms and prayers in Māori were printed there and distributed to missions across the North Island. The guided tour covers the whole process: papermaking, the hand press, leather tanning and book stitching.
The building survived the Battle of Kororāreka in 1845 and was later used as a residence. Restoration returned it to its original structure. Surrounding the site is a garden with old trees and views over the bay.
Visits are guided, at times throughout the day, and there is an admission fee; check the current rates.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour with the guided tour.
Best time
In the morning or early afternoon to catch one of the guided tours. In winter the hours are reduced; confirm before you go.
How to get there
On foot from Russell pier, about a 5-minute walk along the waterfront (The Strand) heading south.
Tip
Arrive shortly before a guided tour begins — that’s the way to see the press and tannery in operation. Combine it with Christ Church, just minutes away.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Pompallier Mission
What is the Pompallier Mission in Russell?
It is the former headquarters of the French Catholic mission, dating from 1842, where books in the Māori language were printed. Today it is a historic house with guided tours.
How long does the visit to the Pompallier Mission take?
About one hour, with the guided tour of the printworks and tannery.
Is the Pompallier Mission open year-round?
Yes, with reduced hours in winter. Confirm guided tour times before you go.