Pompallier Mission & Printery

Step back in time to 1842 at New Zealand’s oldest industrial building, where French Catholic missionaries translated religious texts into te reo Māori, printed them on the original Gaveaux press, and bound them in hand-tanned leather. Located on Russell’s beautiful waterfront, this unique French-style rammed earth building offers one of New Zealand’s finest heritage experiences, combining fascinating history with hands-on demonstrations of traditional printing and bookbinding techniques.

Discover the remarkable story of the Marist Brothers who established the headquarters for their mission to Western Oceania in what was then known as Kororāreka, the notorious “hell-hole of the Pacific.” Join passionate guides on an engaging tour through the fully restored printery and tannery, learning the complete process of 19th-century book production. Experience working historical equipment, explore award-winning heritage gardens with stunning bay views, and discover the origins of everyday phrases we still use today. The French Coffee House offers excellent refreshments, while the Good Merchant Gift Shop provides unique heritage souvenirs.

About this Activity

• Free cancellation – Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Reserve now & pay later – Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
• Duration – Guided tours approximately 45-60 minutes, plus time for gardens and café.
• Opening Hours – Daily 10:00am-4:00pm (gardens until 3:30pm). Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day, Good Friday.

Key Highlights & Facts

• Historic Significance: New Zealand’s oldest Roman Catholic building, oldest rammed earth building, and oldest industrial building. Last remaining structure from the 1840s Catholic Mission headquarters.
• Guided Tours: Expert-led tours at 10:30am, 11:30am, 1:30pm, 2:30pm, and 3:30pm daily. Guides bring history alive with fascinating stories and demonstrations.
• Hands-On Experience: Witness traditional leather tanning and bookbinding processes using faithfully restored original equipment from the 1840s. Learn why books were once precious treasures.
• Original Printing Press: See the historic Gaveaux press that printed over 30,000 books between 1842-1849, some of the first texts in te reo Māori.
• Award-Winning Gardens: Victorian and Edwardian gardens created in 1879-80, offering peaceful hillside walks with spectacular views over the Bay of Islands.
• Location: Five-minute walk from Russell Wharf on The Strand. Combined tickets available with Russell Museum for discounted entry.
• Admission: Adult guided tour $15, Gardens self-guided $7, Coffee Croissant and Culture Tour $24.50 (seasonal). Free entry for Heritage New Zealand members and under 18s.

Prepare for Your Trip (Important Information)

• What to Bring: Camera for photos, comfortable walking shoes for garden exploration, sun protection for outdoor areas.
• Tour Duration: Allow 1.5-2 hours total for guided tour and garden exploration. Tours are detailed and informative.
• Facilities: French Coffee House (seasonal), Good Merchant Gift Shop, restrooms on-site.
• Accessibility: Contact ahead to discuss specific accessibility requirements for the historic building.
• Booking: Walk-ins welcome, but advance booking recommended during peak season to secure preferred tour time.