Events in the Bay

Bay Of Islands Activities

Check out all these exciting events and activities held in the Bay of Islands - all of which you can do while staying and enjoying the comforts of The Duke of Marlborough Hotel.

Trip to Sip with Marsden Estate

4 October 2024

Come down to The Duke of Marlborough from 5.30pm to meet the guys behind the wines at Marsden Estate! 

Shaken Not Stirred

5 October 2024

Join the party in Black Tie on Saturday 5th October from 5pm till 10pm at Charlotte’s Kitchen. Cocktails & Canapes, Prizes for Best Dressed, Blind Tastings collaborated with Black Collar Distillery, and all while enjoying the amazing beats from the one and only-  DJ CEEKAY!!

Bay of Islands Walking Weekend

10, 11, 12, 13 October 2024

We walk many of the islands and remote spots on the peninsula that are hard to access as individuals – the walking weekend makes it cost effective and hassle free.  The walks are spectacular with breath taking scenery, amazing flora and fauna, but also very rich in history and culture, you are walking in footsteps of some of the first explorers to arrive in New Zealand.

Trip to Sip with Boulder Bay

11 October 2024

Come down to The Duke of Marlborough from 5.30pm to meet the guys behind the wines at Boulder Bay! 

Orongo Bay Oyster Shellebrations

12 October 2024

Live Oyster Shucking, and meet the brewers, winemakers, and oyster farmers! Enjoy $2.50 oysters at The Duke of Marlborugh from 12pm 

Trip to Sip with Dancing Petrel

18 October 2024

Come down to The Duke of Marlborough from 5.30pm to meet the guys behind the wines at Dsncing Petrel! 

PIC Bay of Islands Coastal Classic

25, 26, 27 October 2024

The PIC Coastal Classic Yacht Race from Auckalnd's Devonport Wharf to Russell Wharf in the Bay of Islands, is New Zealand's premier fleet yacht race and has been held annually at Labour weekend since its inception in 1982.

Trip to Sip with Omata Estate

25 October 2024

Come down to The Duke of Marlborough from 5.30pm to meet the guys behind the wines at Omata Estate! 

Rum Festival with The Wellington Sea Shanty Society

26 October 2024

Ahoy, me hearties! Hoist the sails, set yer compasses and set course for the Duke of Marlborough in Russell, where we be hostin' a Rum Festival to rival all others, especially the day after a race when ye be needin' to unwind and carouse like true pirates!

Northland Chess Championship 2024

2 November 2024

Melbourne Cup at The Duke of Marlborough

5 November 2024

Join us to watch the races in style, on the Russell Waterfront at The Duke of Marlborough! 

Northland Waste Kerikeri Half Marathon

16 November 2024

Starting in Okaihau the 21.1km course makes its way through rolling countryside to finish in the centre of town at the Kerikeri Domain. The race is largely downhill, so good for a PB, and perfect if you're new to running!

Blue70 Beach to Bay - Ocean Swim

30 November 2024

Prepare to be left in awe as you depart from one of the Far North’s most stunning beaches and find yourself in the charming, heritage-rich town of Russell. This scenic harbour crossing will challenge you both physically and mentally, delivering an unforgettable experience.

New Years Eve

31 December 2024

Join us at The Duke of Marlborough to see in 2025, with live music, set course dinners, and the bubbles flowing, it is the place to be! 

What our customers say

We recently celebrated our wedding at this amazing venue, and it was truly the best day of our lives! From the moment we arrived, the staff went above and beyond to ensure everything was perfect. The accommodations were stunning, providing a comfortable and luxurious experience for us and all our guests. The view was absolutely breathtaking, adding a magical backdrop to our ceremony and photos that we will cherish forever. Every detail, from the service to the setting, was handled with care and professionalism, making our special day seamless and unforgettable. We absolutely loved everything about this venue, especially the incredible view, and cannot recommend it highly enough to any couple looking for the perfect place to tie the knot. Thank you for making our wedding day so incredibly special

- Mariana & Nikita, Saturday 16th Feburary 2024,

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