Russell
Tourism

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19th C. as a whaling station and trading post, where honest traders as well as more doubtful characters did business with the Maoris. In 1840 the treaty recognizing British sovereignty was signed at Waitangi, on the opposite side of the inlet, and Governor Hobson acquired land in nearby Okiato on which to establish the seat of government. But Russell did not remain long the capital, which was soon transferred to Auckland.

The name of the place was changed from Kororareka to Russell in honor of Lord John Russell, then British colonial secretary and later prime minister. In 1841 the government buildings in Russell were destroyed by fire. The change of name probably also reflected the inhabitants' desire to throw off the bad reputation of Kororareka. With the transfer of the seat of government to Auckland the Bay of Islands area declined in population and in importance.